Hungary’s space tourism sector is still in its early days. The country is rebuilding its space program, mostly through government investment and teaming up with international partners.
Instead of launching commercial space tourism right away, Hungary is focused on getting its regulations and educational programs in place.
Right now, Hungary’s space tourism scene is more about potential than actual activity. No one has set up dedicated spaceports or launch sites for tourists yet.
Current Market Status:
The government put 7 billion HUF into space-related research and development in 2023. This funding is supposed to help the space industry grow and, maybe down the line, open doors for tourism.
Hungary wants to get the basics right first. Over the past few decades, the country has launched more than 140 space devices with help from international missions.
That technical experience could lay the foundation for future tourism development.
The HUNOR Hungarian Astronaut Program is Hungary’s biggest space project lately. Tibor Kapu took on the role of the country’s second research astronaut, with Gyula Cserényi as backup.
The program plans to send Hungarian astronauts to the International Space Station for two weeks of scientific work. This is a big deal—Hungary hasn’t sent someone to space in 45 years, not since Bertalan Farkas.
Key Infrastructure Developments:
The HUNIVERZUM center comes packed with astronaut simulators and hands-on exhibits. These places get people excited about space and could be useful for future space tourism training programs.
Hungary’s shot at space tourism mostly depends on working with international partners. The country sits in a good spot within the EU, which means it can tap into established space tourism markets.
Development Opportunities:
The government sees space activities as a long-term economic bet. Minister Péter Szijjártó has promised ongoing support for the space program.
From 2021 to 2023, Hungary spent 19.4 billion HUF on space research. That’s 2.6 billion HUF more than what they spent in the previous decade, showing a real push for growth.
Places like HUNIVERZUM help get the public interested and might spark more demand for space tourism later. If European space tourism keeps expanding, Hungary could easily become a regional training and prep hub.
Hungary is making real moves to get back into the space game. Government plans include a new astronaut program and more satellite projects.
Hungary’s government kicked off a big space program, starting with the country’s first national space law and a dedicated National Space Agency. Economic Minister Márton Nagy rolled out these ideas to help Hungary compete in the global space scene.
The space strategy, which first appeared in 2021, is getting an update to keep up with new trends and tech. The government keeps a close eye on EU space law to make sure Hungary’s rules fit with European standards.
Key Policy Elements:
In 2025, Hungary launched a €3.5 million funding program just for Hungarian companies. This money helps with communications satellites and smaller space projects.
The country secured access to €322 million in space-related funding for the next few years. That should help Hungary become a bigger player in peaceful space exploration and use.
Hungary’s space program has set some clear goals, from building satellites to sending astronauts and investing in new facilities. The plan is to launch a new Hungarian satellite by early 2027, teaming up with the European Space Agency.
Major Investment Projects: The REMTECH Space Technologies center stands out as Hungary’s largest space industry project so far. REMRED Ltd and 4iG Space & Defense Technologies Ltd are building this €10 billion facility in Martonvásár.
This 4,000 square meter site will be Europe’s first modular satellite manufacturing center. The project is expected to create at least 85 high-value jobs, with more than 130 engineers and technicians working on small satellites.
Satellite Capabilities: By 2026, the center plans to produce and test satellites up to 400 kg. Hungary wants to launch a telecommunications satellite between 2028 and 2032, equipped with six high-res cameras and two radars for Earth observation.
Astronaut Program: Hungary is still going strong with its astronaut program. The country plans to send more astronauts to space, building on its 10-year membership in the European Space Agency.
Hungary’s space legacy stretches back over forty years. It all started with Bertalan Farkas in 1980 as the first Hungarian cosmonaut, and now includes Tibor Kapu’s mission in 2025.
These two astronauts really show how things have changed—from Cold War science missions to today’s commercial partnerships.
Bertalan Farkas made history in 1980, becoming Hungary’s first astronaut on the Soviet Soyuz 36 mission. His trip to the Salyut 6 space station put Hungary on the map as the seventh country to send a citizen into space.
Farkas spent eight days running experiments in orbit, focusing on materials science and Earth observation. The flight was a big win for Hungary’s scientists during the Soviet-era Interkosmos program.
He launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan and worked closely with Soviet cosmonauts. They finished a bunch of research goals together.
His success opened doors for Hungarian space tech in the years that followed.
Since Farkas’s flight, more than 140 Hungarian-built instruments have flown on international missions. His legacy still inspires Hungary’s space program and research today.
Tibor Kapu became Hungary’s second astronaut in June 2025, ending a 45-year break from human spaceflight. He flew on a SpaceX Crew Dragon as part of the Axiom-4 mission to the ISS.
Kapu’s two-week mission was packed with scientific work. He carried out almost 30 experiments across 10 different research areas.
This mission is part of Hungary’s HUNOR (Hungarian to Orbit) program, which aims to restart the country’s space industry.
Hungary wanted this flight to focus on real science, not just tourism. The goal was to make Hungary a serious player in the global space industry.
Kapu’s experiments pushed forward Hungarian space tech and research.
The mission launched under American astronaut Peggy Whitson’s command. Hungary joined India and Poland in sending astronauts on this commercial flight, ushering in a new era of international cooperation in civilian space.
Hungary is back in space after a 45-year break, thanks to the HUNOR program sending Tibor Kapu to the ISS for a 14-day research mission. This mission really highlights Hungary’s commitment to teaming up with other countries and pushing scientific boundaries with nearly 30 experiments.
The Hungarian government put up $100 million to secure a seat on Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) through Axiom Space. This is the first time in 45 years that a Hungarian astronaut has done research on the International Space Station.
Tibor Kapu got picked as Hungary’s main astronaut for this mission. He came out on top in the tough HUNOR program selection.
The mission shows Hungary is serious about staying involved in international space programs. Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó said the government plans to keep Hungary active in space research and tech for the long haul.
Hungary opened the “HUNIVERZUM – Hungarians in Space” visitor center in Budapest to celebrate its space achievements. The center gives public education about space missions and sparks interest in science.
Hungarian astronauts plan to run almost 30 scientific experiments during their ISS mission. Hungarian universities, research groups, and companies suggested these experiments across different fields.
Medical and biological research is a big part of the mission. The MAGYAR project uses virtual reality headsets to study how microgravity affects thinking and motor skills.
Astronauts collect saliva and tear samples to check stress hormones and biological responses to spaceflight.
The END SANS experiment tries out a nanofibrous eye insert to treat Spaceflight Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome, a condition that affects astronaut vision on long trips.
Material science studies test how clothing transfers heat in microgravity, aiming to make astronauts more comfortable. Researchers also look at how spaceflight changes 3D printed materials, especially those for medical use.
The VITAPRIC study looks at plant growth in space. Scientists want to see how growth primers can boost vitamins and proteins in microgreens, which could help with future long missions and even farming on Earth.
Hungary’s space industry is built on clusters of innovation and research partnerships. The country is growing its commercial space sector with help from the government and strong connections to European space programs.
A handful of specialized companies in Hungary focus on satellite tech and space systems. They mostly work on components and subsystems for bigger missions, not so much on direct tourism.
Remred stands out as a major player in Hungary’s space manufacturing scene. The company recently set up a new space technology manufacturing center with government help. They make specialized parts for all sorts of space uses.
Admatis Kft leads several space projects in Hungary. The company has worked on satellite missions, including the Sentinel-2 family. Their team knows satellite systems integration and mission management inside and out.
Some smaller firms add to Hungary’s capabilities with specialized tech. They focus on things like VHF transmitters, on-board instruments, and miniaturized satellite components.
Many of these companies take part in CubeSat missions and tech demos.
The government is a big supporter of the space industry. Officials have said Hungary could become a major player, and they’re backing that up with funding for new facilities and research partnerships.
Hunspace stands as Hungary’s main space industry organization and coordination hub. The cluster brings together researchers, entrepreneurs, and educators from across the country’s space sector.
The group connects academia, government, industry, and public stakeholders. This setup lets Hungary’s space economy grow through joint projects and shared resources. Hunspace members include companies with know-how in more than 20 technology fields.
Key Hunspace Achievements:
Hunspace puts its energy into practical space applications, not tourism. The cluster focuses on satellite tech, space instruments, and manufacturing. Members take on projects for European Space Agency missions and commercial satellite operators.
They also push for international collaboration in the global space sector. Through Hunspace, Hungarian companies join multinational projects, which gives smaller firms a shot at bigger markets and advanced tech.
Hungary keeps active membership in the European Space Agency (ESA). This partnership opens doors for Hungarian companies to join major missions and tech development programs. ESA membership also brings funding for Hungarian space projects.
The country lines up its space regulations with European Union standards. This regulatory setup focuses on safety and environmental sustainability. Hungarian space firms must meet these standards when creating new tech or joining international missions.
Airbus Defence & Space teams up directly with Hungarian companies on satellite projects. The Sentinel-2 mission stands out as a major collaboration, with Hungarian firms providing components and services. These partnerships help local companies gain hands-on experience with big space missions.
Czech and other Central European space companies work with Hungarian firms on different projects. The HiReL manufacturing demonstration shows how regional cooperation works. By teaming up, smaller countries can tackle complex space projects together.
Hungarian space companies also join tech transfer programs with international partners. These deals bring advanced space tech to Hungary and let local firms supply specialized components to global missions.
Budapest has become Hungary’s space tourism hub, thanks to the new HUNIVERZUM visitor center and educational programs that aim to inspire the next generation of space travelers. The capital positions itself as a gateway for anyone curious about Hungary’s growing space ambitions.
The HUNIVERZUM “Hungarians in Space” exhibition opened at Budapest’s Millenáris G building, giving visitors an interactive space exploration experience. This permanent facility highlights Hungary’s space heritage, which stretches back over 80 years.
Inside, you’ll find past achievements and current missions side by side. Visitors get to see over 140 Hungarian instruments that have flown on international missions. Interactive displays show off spacecraft tech and astronaut training.
Key Exhibition Features:
The center connects Budapest locals and tourists to Hungary’s renewed space strategy. Visitors can watch preparations for Hungary’s upcoming International Space Station mission, where astronaut Tibor Kapu will spend two weeks on scientific research.
Budapest leads Hungary’s space education with university partnerships and research programs. The HUNOR program builds bridges between Hungarian universities, research groups, and international space companies.
Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó points out that space missions inspire young Hungarians to go after science and engineering careers. The government put a ministerial commissioner in charge of space strategy four years ago, based in Budapest.
Educational programs stick to practical applications. Students get involved in real space research linked to the International Space Station mission. Hungarian universities work with international partners to develop space tech.
The capital’s research institutions contribute to almost 30 experiments across 10 scientific fields planned for the ISS mission. These partnerships open doors for future space tourism as Hungary grows its commercial space capabilities.
Hungary has become a key player in the European space industry, thanks to smart investments in satellite manufacturing and engineering. The country’s space program has hit some impressive milestones in advanced satellite systems and building cutting-edge research centers.
Hungary’s space industry has made real progress in satellite development, especially with the REMTECH Space Technologies center in Martonvásár. This 10 billion euro investment built Europe’s first modular satellite manufacturing facility—4,000 square meters packed with cleanrooms and labs.
The facility employs over 130 engineers and technicians who focus on small satellite development and testing. By 2026, the center expects to produce and test satellites weighing up to 400 kilograms. Hungary is aiming to stand out as a major space industry competitor.
Hungarian companies are working to launch a telecommunications satellite between 2028 and 2032. This satellite will have six high-res cameras and two radars for Earth observation.
The government wants to put a new Hungarian satellite in orbit by early 2027. This goal marks a big step for the country’s satellite manufacturing abilities.
REMRED Ltd and 4iG Space & Defence Technologies Ltd lead the largest space industry investment in Hungary. Their partnership focuses on building domestic communications satellites and moving forward with lower-tier space projects.
Hungary’s space engineering successes revolve around the HUNOR (Hungarian in Orbit) program. This program has spurred new jobs and boosted the national economy.
The country keeps up active participation in European Space Agency (ESA) programs, building on a decade of membership. In 2025, Hungary launched a 3.5 million euro funding program for Hungarian companies to support domestic satellite development.
Hungarian space researchers have earned international recognition with experiments chosen from proposals by universities, research institutes, and companies. These projects help connect Hungarian space research with global science and build stronger collaborations.
The space program has brought in 322 million euros in space-related funding for Hungarian companies over the next few years. This big investment shows the government’s commitment to making Hungary a leader in peaceful space exploration.
The REMTECH facility will create at least 85 high-value jobs, which helps grow Hungary’s technical workforce. Universities have started Hungary’s first ‘New Space Economy’ course to train students in space industry business models and new technologies.
Space tourists can get involved in real scientific research during their flights. Hungarian astronaut Tibor Kapu’s work proves that civilian space travelers can contribute to important experiments.
The International Space Station gives space tourists unique research chances. Visitors can run experiments that help scientists learn how space affects living things and materials.
Space tourists often try simple but important studies. They might grow plants in zero gravity or watch how liquids move without weight. These projects help prepare for longer missions.
Hungarian research programs show what tourists can do. The HUNOR program creates experiments for regular people in space. Space tourists don’t need years of training to help out.
Medical studies attract many space tourists. They test how their bodies change in space, which helps doctors understand space sickness and bone loss.
Material science works well, too. Space tourists can mix metals or grow crystals in ways that Earth just doesn’t allow. These studies might lead to new medicines or stronger materials.
Hungarian universities connect with space tourists through the UniSpace program. This program matches space visitors with real research needs from schools and companies.
Space medicine research benefits from tourist involvement. Universities study how different people react to space travel. This data helps make flights safer for everyone.
Food science experiments are pretty popular. Tourists test how plants grow in space or how food stays fresh. These studies could help feed astronauts on future Mars missions.
The Spacelab network builds on Tibor Kapu’s research. Space tourists continue experiments started by Hungarian astronauts, creating a chain of research over many flights.
Engineering projects give tourists hands-on experience. They try out new tools or communication devices, and companies use their feedback to improve space tech.
Hungarian space research spending hit 7 billion HUF in 2023. This funding gives space tourists more chances to join meaningful research projects.
Hungary offers some of the best astronomical facilities and dark sky spots in Europe. Visitors can enjoy stargazing opportunities at modern observatories and interactive space centers that can honestly rival any in Europe.
The Bükk Observatory in Répáshuta stands as Eastern Europe’s most advanced astronomical facility. Sitting 635 meters up, it gives crystal-clear views of the sky that outshine what you’ll see from lower elevations on the Hungarian Plain.
Inside, you’ll find one of Hungary’s largest meteorite collections, including real samples from the Moon and Mars. Visitors can actually handle them. The observatory also has a special astrophotography telescope in its dome, perfect for both scientific work and public stargazing.
A 50-seat planetarium puts on “Wonders of the Sky” shows that pull guests into cosmic adventures. The VR room lets two people at a time take virtual trips to Martian canyons, the Moon’s surface, or the International Space Station.
Bakonybél is home to Hungary’s first complex astronomical education center. This place combines interactive space research exhibits with 3D cinema and a big collection of modern telescopes. Day and night programs cater to all skill levels and interests.
Hungary’s observatories run special programs tied to astronomical events and seasonal viewing. Night tours at major facilities include guided telescope sessions, where expert astronomers help visitors spot planets, nebulae, and distant galaxies.
The Bükk Observatory offers regular astrophotography workshops where participants learn to capture images of the night sky using professional gear. These sessions cover camera settings, telescope handling, and image processing—skills any amateur astronomer can use at home.
Educational programs focus on exploring the solar system and how stars form. Interactive exhibits let visitors try out gravitational experiments, see planetary motion, and learn about star life cycles through hands-on activities and computer simulations.
Many facilities time their events with meteor showers, lunar eclipses, and planetary alignments. These special nights often feature longer viewing hours and expert commentary, making the experience richer for both beginners and seasoned stargazers.
Hungary has built comprehensive educational programs that use space exploration to spark students’ interest in science and technology. These initiatives mix hands-on learning with real astronaut experiences to prepare young people for future careers in the space industry.
Hungary’s UniSpace program has become the country’s flagship space education initiative. It brings together 21 Hungarian universities, all working to train the next generation of space professionals.
The three-semester curriculum covers space technology, space health and nutrition, space science, and space policy. Organizers launched the program in 2022 and saw the first group graduate in spring 2025.
Now, students can take courses in both Hungarian and English. That move opens the door for international participants.
Ludovika University of Public Service coordinates the entire initiative. They keep the program running smoothly.
The ESERO Hungary project is another big educational effort. It’s a European Space Agency initiative meant to boost STEM education at the school level.
Teachers get training and resources so they can add space themes to their science and math lessons. That way, students get a taste of space even in everyday classes.
Universities across Hungary bring real space mission data into their courses. Students actually study experiments Hungarian astronauts performed aboard the International Space Station.
This real-world connection makes learning more interesting. It’s just more engaging when you know the experiments happened not in a textbook, but in orbit.
The ORION Space Generation Foundation runs programs designed specifically for kids. They organize large competitions that challenge young people to think creatively about space exploration.
These contests touch on everything from rocket design to planetary science. It’s a fun way to get kids thinking big.
Hungarian schools often host visits from space professionals and astronauts. Students hear firsthand about training, launch procedures, and what it’s like to live on the International Space Station.
These personal stories inspire many young people to dream of space careers. There’s something about meeting someone who’s actually been there.
The Space Generation Advisory Council Hungary connects students and young professionals interested in space. This network offers mentorship and helps participants find internships at space companies.
Members attend workshops on spacecraft technology and space policy. It’s a good way to get your foot in the door.
Schools across Hungary also run hands-on space experiments. Students build model rockets, design Mars habitats, and try out microgravity simulations.
These activities teach physics and engineering in a way that’s actually fun. Science feels more accessible when you’re building or experimenting with your own hands.
Hungary is working hard to become a serious player in the global space industry. They’re building international partnerships and leaning into their unique technological strengths.
The country’s 45-year return to space shows real commitment to joining the commercial space scene. It’s not just talk—they’re doing the work.
Hungary has locked in meaningful partnerships with major space agencies and commercial operators. The country participates in European Space Agency programs and keeps strong ties with NASA through International Space Station research.
The HUNOR astronaut program stands out as Hungary’s most visible international collaboration. Astronaut Tibor Kapu will carry out nearly 30 experiments across 10 scientific fields during his ISS mission.
Hungarian universities, research institutes, and companies all contribute experiments. It’s a real team effort.
The local space industry focuses on knowledge-intensive technologies instead of heavy manufacturing. This lets Hungarian companies compete with bigger nations.
They’ve already sent more than 140 Hungarian instruments on international space missions. That’s no small feat.
Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó announced that Hungary will make its participation in international space research permanent. Global partners now see Hungary as a reliable, long-term collaborator.
Hungary’s space strategy positions the nation as a specialized provider of advanced research and innovative technologies. Leaders adopted the current strategy four years ago to put Hungary back on the global map.
The government treats the space industry as a key economic resource. Officials often point out that space technology is one of the world’s most crisis-resilient sectors.
That kind of stability attracts international investment and new partnerships. It’s a smart move.
Hungarian companies excel at developing sophisticated instruments and research equipment for space missions. The education system produces skilled engineers and scientists who drive this progress.
Hungary’s location in Europe gives it access to both Eastern and Western markets. The country serves as a bridge between different space industry networks.
This geographic advantage helps Hungarian companies join a wide range of international projects. It’s a good spot to be in.
Hungarian residents interested in space tourism have a few unique things to consider. Training requirements, available providers, costs, and regulations all come into play.
Current space tourism programs accept international participants through established protocols. Price points and safety standards vary quite a bit.
Hungarian citizens need to meet the standard international space tourism requirements set by the major providers. Medical clearance covers cardiovascular fitness, normal blood pressure, and the absence of serious conditions.
Most programs accept people between 18 and 65 years old. Physical fitness requirements depend on the company, but you’ll need to handle 3-4 Gs during launch and re-entry.
Training usually lasts 3-5 days for suborbital flights. You’ll get safety briefings, learn emergency procedures, and do zero-gravity simulations at training facilities.
Virgin Galactic accepts Hungarian passengers for suborbital flights out of Spaceport America in New Mexico. Blue Origin offers similar flights from West Texas and doesn’t restrict Hungarian nationals.
SpaceX lets Hungarian citizens book orbital missions through private charter arrangements. These trips take more training and a much bigger investment.
You book directly through the company’s website or an authorized space tourism agent. Hungarian travelers need to arrange US travel documents and complete training in the US.
A suborbital flight with Virgin Galactic costs around $450,000 per seat. Blue Origin’s pricing is about the same for their 11-minute trip to the Karman line.
Orbital missions with SpaceX start at about $55 million for a multi-day stay on the International Space Station. Private orbital flights without ISS docking cost roughly $20-30 million per person.
You’ll need to cover extra expenses like US travel, accommodation during training, and medical exams. Hungarian citizens pay the same base prices as other international customers.
Suborbital flights give you 3-4 minutes of weightlessness during an 11-minute total flight. The whole experience, including training, takes about a week in the US.
Orbital missions last from 3 days to 2 weeks, depending on the program. ISS visits usually run 8-10 days and require lots of pre-flight prep.
Hungarian participants spend extra time traveling to and from US training facilities. The total commitment is about 2 weeks for suborbital and up to 6 months for orbital missions.
All major space tourism companies follow strict safety protocols approved by the Federal Aviation Administration. They test and certify spacecraft thoroughly before flying passengers.
Emergency systems include backup life support, escape mechanisms, and abort options during critical flight phases. Medical teams stay on standby throughout training and flight operations.
Hungarian participants get the same safety protections as American customers. Insurance coverage depends on the provider and deserves a careful look before you book.
Hungarian citizens need to get the right US visas for training and launch activities. For most short trips, a B-1 or B-2 tourist visa usually does the job.
Sometimes, export control regulations kick in when you get access to certain technical info during training. The companies involved will ask you to sign standard non-disclosure agreements about spacecraft systems and procedures.
Hungarian tax rules might apply to your space tourism purchases, but it depends on your situation. It’s honestly wise to talk to a tax professional to sort out the details for international space travel expenses.
