A Czech astronaut will head to the ISS. The government approved mission

22/5/2025Press releases

The government of the Czech Republic has supported the participation of the first Czech astronaut on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS). The cabinet perceives major Aleš Svoboda's mission as an extraordinary event with a societal impact and also as a big stimulus for the development of the Czech space industry, science and education. Sending an astronaut is an opportunity to support the transformation of the Czech economy towards innovation and high value-added products, to increase the competitiveness of Czech businesses and to inspire a new generation to study science and engineering.

A Czech astronaut will head to the ISS. The government approved mission

"The mission of Czech astronaut Aleš Svoboda is not just a symbolic gesture. It is a concrete step towards strengthening Czech industry and science. Every crown invested in the space programme will pay back many times through innovation, new technologies and inspiration for the younger generation. This is an exceptional moment and has a major impact on the future growth of our economy and society," says transport minister Martin Kupka, who is responsible for space activities.

The Ministry of Transport, in cooperation with other ministries, has selected 14 experiments that will be part of Aleš Svoboda's mission to the ISS. These experiments include a wide range of projects: from research on human physiology and biotechnology to testing new technologies and educational activities. For example, a dosimeter in wristwatch design will allow precise monitoring of exposure to ionising radiation and thus help better protect astronauts. Other experiments include improved life support systems for future spacecraft. The effect of the space environment, especially microgravity – state of weightlessness – and radiation on the human body is investigated as well. Some projects will contribute to research on cancer, fertility or food resilience to climate change. Each experiment has a clearly defined goal: to answer a specific scientific question using an experimental method. Scientists will formulate a hypothesis, which they then verify or reject based on the data they have collected.

According to an Ipsos survey from January 2025, more than 70% of Czechs perceive the investment in the Czech astronaut going on a space mission as beneficial, especially if conducting scientific experiments with benefits for medicine, new technologies or environmental protection. "Engaging in cutting-edge experiments and technological projects means that we will gain valuable know-how and open the door to global markets for the Czech Republic. I am convinced that space activities help science and innovation, and also the entire domestic industry," said transport minister Martin Kupka.

Investing in the space mission is an investment in the future of the Czech Republic

The Czech mission to the ISS is part of the broader government programme Czech Journey to Space, bringing science, industry and education together and strengthening the Czech Republic's position in technology and innovation. Sending a Czech astronaut into space is a prestigious event and a strategic step towards a stronger Czech economy, science and education. The total cost of CZK 2 billion will be spread over three years (2025-2027) and covered by the Czech Republic's increased contribution to ESA.

The return of this investment shall be a multiple of the amount invested. The average return on investment in space activities is up to eight times. This means that for every crown invested in space, up to eight crowns are returned to the economy.

However, there is much more than that

"The mission to educate and prepare the younger generation for their future careers brings such a high value that it can hardly be calculated. Interest in technical fields and science is a clear huge benefit for our future. We are facing a shortage of engineers and need scientists who have the chance to work on cutting-edge international research and develop the skills that will enable them to change the world. We need active, motivated and hard-working people to help our economy. It is thanks to such opportunities that we can systematically prepare a generation to be involved in key discoveries and technological development, so that the Czech Republic does not remain on the sidelines, but becomes an active part of them," said Václav Kobera, Director of the Department of Space Activities and New Technologies of the Ministry of Defence.

Experience from abroad clearly confirms that space missions can be very powerful inspiration for children and young people and generate interest in science, technology or other scientific disciplines. "It is a great honour for me to represent the Czech Republic in the preparations for this historic mission. A flight into space is not just a dream come true, but a big commitment to help science, inspire the young generation and show what we can do when joining forces across science, industry and education," said Czech astronaut and army fighter pilot major Aleš Svoboda, a member of ESA's astronaut backup team.