Inspired by a Portuguese initiative, the programme Astronaut for a Day is aimed at secondary school pupils with aspirations of joining the next generation of astronauts.
The second edition, launched in February, attracted more than 400 teenagers – nearly double the number of participants from 2023. Matthias Link of the Luxembourg Space Agency explained that 13 finalists were selected from this group, each with the potential to serve as space ambassadors within their schools. Ambassadors are tasked with inspiring their peers to consider careers in the space sector.
Minister of the Economy Lex Delles emphasised that the initiative is fundamentally about identifying and nurturing future talent to strengthen Luxembourg’s growing space industry. Currently, the Grand Duchy is home to 80 businesses operating in the space sector, all of which are seeking skilled young professionals to support continued growth.
The candidates had to prove themselves across different disciplines, which was not easy: “There were diverse projects and things the pupils had to master in order to be selected. The interview in particular, as it is not something everyone is used to,” said Delles.
“There was a test for cognitive abilities, the video application, and the sports test. I was not sure how that would work,” one pupil admitted, “but it went well in the end.”
“I had already applied the first time, though I did not get past the sports test, and that’s when I decided I would make more of an effort this year,” said the pupil, adding, “I think the hardest part was succeeding in the sports competition.”
The 2025 edition offers three finalists the opportunity to experience three space-focused businesses and the work they do first-hand. This project is also intended to provide support for the future. Successful candidates can make immediate connections with the firms, thus opening up a myriad of doors.
A major event for the 13 chosen finalists is the parabolic flight in October, which simulates a loss of gravity. It is an event that enables the pupils to move a bit closer to the stars.
