What has diversified the vehicle options for ESA astronauts beyond the historically used Russian Soyuz spacecraft?

Answer

Commercial crew capabilities like the SpaceX Crew Dragon

Historically, access to the ISS for European astronauts was primarily facilitated through flights aboard the Russian Soyuz spacecraft, which served as the sole means of transport for a significant period. However, this situation has evolved due to the successful introduction of commercial crew capabilities. Specifically, vehicles developed under these commercial programs, such as the SpaceX Crew Dragon used for US segment access missions, have diversified the range of launch options available. This diversification through multiple vehicle types ensures Europe maintains its required presence in orbit even if one launch system experiences operational status shifts.

What has diversified the vehicle options for ESA astronauts beyond the historically used Russian Soyuz spacecraft?

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