Czech Republic Plans First Mission to the International Space Station Next Year
Agreement Signed with ESA – Aleš Svoboda Could Become the First Czech to Fly to the ISS as Part of the Mission
Foto: Vláda České republiky
The Czech Republic has taken an important step towards its first space mission to the International Space Station (ISS). At the Prague Planetarium on Monday, the government presented the current status of the national project “Česká cesta do vesmíru” (Czech Journey into Space).
During a press conference, the signing of an agreement between the European Space Agency (ESA) and the company Vast Space was announced. The agreement is intended to enable the Czech Republic’s participation in a planned commercial crewed mission to the ISS and is regarded as a significant milestone for the project.
According to the project organisers, the agreement also opens up the possibility for the Czech Republic to fill the position of mission pilot. A potential candidate is Czech Army pilot and ESA reserve astronaut Aleš Svoboda. However, his participation must still be confirmed by the international partners.
Foto: Vláda České republiky
Prime Minister Andrej Babiš described the initiative as a strategic investment in the country’s future. In addition to the symbolic significance of a crewed space mission, the project offers opportunities in particular for Czech scientists, universities and companies. Technologies developed through space research could in future find applications in industry, healthcare and other sectors.
The project forms part of the broader “Česká cesta do vesmíru” initiative, which includes support for the space industry as well as the promotion of education, research and technical fields of study. Its aim is to inspire greater interest in science and technology among young people while strengthening the Czech Republic’s position within the international space sector.
Foto: Vláda České republiky
If all necessary approvals are granted and further preparations are completed according to schedule, the mission could take place in the second half of 2027. The government sees it as another step towards increasing the Czech Republic’s involvement in international technology and research projects.
