Description
Thanks to the HUNOR Hungarian Astronaut Programme, Hungary was able to send an astronaut into space again after 45 years. Research astronaut Tibor Kapu served as a member of the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, spending 20 days in orbit, 18 of which were on the International Space Station (ISS). Tibor Kapu conducted experiments of Hungarian universities, companies, and research laboratories on the ISS, in the unique environment provided by the radiation and microgravity experienced in space, while his backup partner Gyula Cserényi supported the mission from Earth. The experiments will also be put to use on Earth, helping to drive medical and materials science, and technology. The Ax-4 crew returned to Earth on 15 July 2025 after successfully completing their work. This mission enhanced the international recognition of the Hungarian space and science sector, and opened up new opportunities for Hungary to participate in one of the world’s fastest growing sectors. One of the programme’s main goals was to spur young people’s interest in natural sciences and technology, to popularise space research and to highlight the significance of space travel for the coming generations.
