Graduated from Moscow Physic-Engineering
Institute, Flight and Dynamics Control, 1973; graduated from Law Institute,
Moscow State University, 1980; doctorate of laws degree from Moscow State
University, Journalism, 1981; assistant to the Russian President, National
Security; member of the Defense Council (until February 1998); hobbies: Science
fiction author, translations from English language, mountains, video filming,
physic mathematical research in politology, work with students; was selected as
cosmonaut on 16.09.1997 by
GMVK;
OKP (cosmonaut basic training): 10/97 - 17.02.1998;
was transferred to the Cosmonaut Group of
VVS; until his retirement he was second deputy
commander of GCTC's group of cosmonauts.