"Astronaut" is the eleventh studio album by the English pop rock band Duran Duran, released on September 28, 2004, through Epic Records. This album marked a significant reunion for the band, as it featured the classic five-member lineup for the first time since their 1983 album Seven and the Ragged Tiger, making it a highly anticipated release.
Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, Astronaut achieved commercial success, peaking at number 3 on the UK Albums Chart—making it Duran Duran's highest-charting album in the UK since 1983. It also reached number 17 on the U.S. Billboard 200 and made it into the top ten in several other countries.
Astronaut debuted impressively, reaching number three on the UK Albums Chart and number 17 on the US Billboard 200, with strong top-20 debuts in various other countries. Notably, the accompanying CD/DVD set topped the Billboard Top Music Video chart. In Japan, the album peaked at number 29.
The first single from the album, "(Reach Up for The) Sunrise," was released in the US on August 30, 2004, and in the UK on October 4, 2004, where it debuted at number five on the UK Singles Chart. By late November, it had also topped the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart.
The second single, "What Happens Tomorrow," was released on January 18, 2005, in the US and on January 31, 2005, in the UK.
Astronaut achieved Gold certification in the UK for sales exceeding 100,000 copies, and it also received Gold certification in Italy. By 2008, it had sold approximately 260,000 copies in the US, further demonstrating its commercial appeal.
The album includes a blend of the band's signature sound, showcasing both nostalgic elements and contemporary influences. In 2021, Duran Duran signed a deal with BMG for the album, leading to its re-issue in the UK across various digital platforms, further solidifying its legacy in the band's discography.
