Description: (Cuban Astronaut, Aviator and Military Officer)
Arnaldo Tamayo Méndez is a Cuban military officer, legislator, and former cosmonaut who made history in 1980 as the first Cuban citizen, the first Latin American, the first person of African descent, and the first individual from a country in the Western Hemisphere other than the United States to journey into Earth orbit. Serving as a crew member on Soyuz 38, he played a crucial role in advancing space exploration and proudly represented his nation and heritage on a global stage.