Space Programs in Emerging Nations: Launching Hungary Into Space

Thursday, January 27, 2022

SWF Director of Program Planning Dr. Brian Weeden gave a public access co-lecture on "Space Programs in Emerging Nations: Launching Hungary Into Space" along with Dan Erkel, a PhD candidate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Dr. Weeden kicked off the discussion by providing an overview of the many benefits humanity derives from space, as well as the current trends accelerating the use of space and subsequent sustainability challenges. Dr. Weeden discussed why these trends are motivating many countries to look at their national space policies and strategies and how the SWF Handbook for New Actors in Space could be a useful resource for them. Mr. Erkel then provided an example of this based on his experience helping develop Hungary's recent first national space strategy. Mr. Erkel also provided an overview of how a systems approach can help provide structure and help guide these types of discussions.