Sweden’s first astronaut says the Philippines has strong potential to develop its role in space technology through education and international cooperation, Philbiznews reports.
During his first visit to the Philippines, Christer Fuglesang encouraged Filipino students to pursue studies in science, technology, engineering and mathematics in order to take part in the rapidly growing space sector.
Fuglesang, who flew to space aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery and worked on the International Space Station, said countries like the Philippines can build expertise by developing their own satellites while collaborating with international partners.
The Swedish astronaut noted that satellites already play an important role in everyday life, supporting communication, navigation, disaster monitoring and climate research.
He also praised the Philippines’ recent efforts to develop satellite technology through partnerships with foreign institutions, calling it an effective way for emerging space nations to build knowledge and technical capability.
Fuglesang added that international cooperation remains essential in space exploration, as large projects such as the Artemis Program require countries to pool resources and expertise.
