From Research to Diplomacy: The Future of Transatlantic Engagement in Space

From Research to Diplomacy: The Future of Transatlantic Engagement in Space

with Professor John Horack, Ph.D., Vice President for Research and Neil Armstrong Chair of Aerospace Policy at Ohio State University
and Dr. Raúl González Muñoz, Research Fellow on the Geopolitics of Outer Space at the Academy of International Affairs NRW
moderated by Dr. Martin Wein, Freelance Journalist

Tuesday, October 14, 2025, 6:00 p.m.
Academy of International Affairs NRW, Rheinallee 24, 53173 Bonn

Space exploration has been a global endeavor since the 1950s. Significant progress has been driven by international—especially transatlantic—partnerships. Europe has contributed to major astrophysics programs such as Hubble and the Gamma Ray Observatory and launched the James Webb Space Telescope. NASA’s Orion spacecraft circumnavigated the Moon, powered by the European Service Module. The International Space Station remains a flagship of the NASA–ESA partnership. With the ISS approaching retirement, the rise of commercial stations, the future of Artemis, and continued exploration all rely on sustaining and deepening these partnerships. This event will explore future opportunities and challenges for transatlantic cooperation in space.

Program: keynote by Professor John Horack followed by a discussion with Dr. Raúl González Muñoz.