On June 25, 2025, Hungary experienced a historic moment when, after a 45-year hiatus, a Hungarian astronaut launched into space. Following four years of preparation, Tibor Kapu, a 33-year-old mechanical engineer was selected from 247 applicants and flew to the International Space Station (ISS), becoming the first Hungarian citizen to set foot aboard it. Alongside Tibor, reserve astronaut Gyula Cserényi, an electrical engineer, also completed full training, marking a significant expansion of Hungary’s astronaut corps.
This breakthrough is part of Hungary’s National Space Strategy, initiated in 2021 and coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary. Under its HUNOR astronaut program, an entire space ecosystem has begun to take shape in the country.
Beyond national prestige, Hungary’s venture into space brings tangible benefits. Technological innovation across sectors - from satellite-based precision agriculture to medical advancements - are already visible. The program has spurred new developments in healthcare and could position Hungary to participate in astronaut training and selection on an international scale.
The country’s presence in European space initiatives is growing. Since 2015, Hungary has been a full member of the European Space Agency, and recent plans include launching Hungarian-built geostationary and Earth observation satellites. A space manufacturing center in Martonvásár will play a key role in these developments. Even culturally and commercially, the mission has had an impact. Hungarian foods, such as Stühmer chocolate and spicy condiments like Erős Pista and Piros Arany, were brought onboard the ISS, raising their international profile.
Scientific engagement has flourished, with Hungarian institutions contributing experimental proposals and instruments to the mission. Kapu Tibor’s 14-day spaceflight will include nearly 30 experiments spanning disciplines like medicine, data analysis, and materials science.
In the words of the classic quote: a small step for Tibor Kapu, but a giant leap for Hungary and its ambitious space strategy.
Hungarian companies have also gained visibility at global industry events like CES 2025 in Las Vegas and the Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, showcasing national contributions to the space sector.