José Manuel Bolieiro says participants in Astronaut for a Day initiative are "true ambassadors" of the Azores - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, praised today the Astronaut for a Day initiative in Santa Maria, describing the thirty young participants as, from now on, "true ambassadors of the Azores."

Organised by the Portuguese Space Agency with financial and logistical support from the Azorean Government, the initiative included a representative from the Azores, from the island of Pico. It consisted of a zero-gravity flight in which 30 Portuguese students enjoyed the unique experience of floating like astronauts.

As José Manuel Bolieiro emphasised, the space sector is a political priority for the Government, given that "Portugal is not just the mainland," with the Azores having a "western projection" that is "highly valuable in the space and maritime sectors, representing many opportunities for the country and Europe."

"I wish to add an ambitious hope to our historical pride, so that we may understand the contribution that Portugal can make through science and research to our maritime and space sectors," continued the President of the Government.

Addressing the young people present at the session, he emphasised: "When returning home, speak as ambitious Portuguese citizens. With your talent, Portugal has much more future than history."

Throughout the three-day event, which took place in the Azores for the first time after being held in Beja for the past three years, participants were involved in dynamic group activities and training sessions on space and communication.

The Regional Secretary for Parliamentary Affairs and Communities, Paulo Estêvão, who is responsible for coordinating matters related to space projects, attended last year's edition of the initiative, where he raised the organisation's awareness of the possibility of holding the event in the Azores. He also attended today's event in Santa Maria.

The fourth edition of the European Symposium of NEREUS Regions, which focuses on space technologies, will soon be held in the Azores. This event demonstrates the region's commitment to advancing in the scientific and economic aspects of space.

The 2025 edition of "Astronaut for a Day" received over 600 applications from all regions of the country, registering, for the first time, a majority of female applicants. Ultimately, 15 boys and 15 girls fulfilled their dream of experiencing zero gravity.