The lead-up to a launch to the International Space Station is steeped in tradition. In this episode, hosts Ally Koehler and Stephen Ennis chat with ESA head of crew support Romain Charles and Luca himself about what is in store for the crew ahead of Luca's launch on 20 July.

Crew support carry out a diverse range of activities at all stages of flight to ensure ESA astronauts are able to focus fully on their missions. Luca's launch is the 10th that Romain has been directly involved in and he will be on site to support Luca's family and friends through the launch campaign in Baikonur, Kazakstan.

Another crew support team member will accompany Luca into medical quarantine. Keeping the crew in medical isolation for 16 days before their launch helps prevent them from becoming ill or contracting a disease that could compromise their ability to fly to the International Space Station. Even a common cold could impact their ability to equalise pressure in their ears and jeopardise performance.

If you are listening to this during the week of 15 July, it is likely the activities you hear about are underway right now. Do not forget to tune into ESA TV for live coverage of the launch on 20 July, see the blog http://blogs.esa.int/luca-parmitano/ for further information and follow the team on Twitter at @esaspaceflight for updates on Beyond.