Astronaut Pesquet to Chair New Space Foundation
Foundation Aims to Promote Spatial Research for the Common Good
A new foundation dedicated to space exploration and research is set to launch soon, with the French astronaut Thomas Pesquet at its helm. The initiative, announced at the 55th International Aeronautical and Space Fair, aims to highlight the benefits of space exploration for the public.
Foundation Details
The Foundation de l’Espace will be officially established following the imminent publication of decrees in the Official Journal. This foundation is a collaborative effort involving several entities, including universities like Toulouse Capitole, Lyon-II, and Isae Supaero, alongside the CNES (National Center for Spatial Studies), ACRI-ST, and the Community of Agglomeration Cannes de Lerins.
“Make known the usefulness of the spatial for the common good.”
—Laurence Monnoyer-Smith, Director of CNES
The inaugural board of directors meeting is scheduled for early September. The foundation’s focus is to tackle questions related to spatial research, especially from an ecological perspective. Notably, the space industry is projected to reach $1 trillion by 2040 (Morgan Stanley, 2024).
The Leaders
Thomas Pesquet will chair the foundation. Laurence Monnoyer-Smith, the CNES director, is optimistic that the foundation will underscore the utility of spatial research for the general public.
