Now is not the time to be squeamish and discouraged.

A new era of space exploration has begun, with Slovenia playing a growing role in international efforts to reach beyond Earth. The country’s contributions to aerospace technology and research have become increasingly visible, particularly through its collaboration with European and American space agencies. As global powers refocus their ambitions toward lunar missions and deep-space exploration, Slovenia's involvement in this field is gaining recognition, even though many of its scientific pioneers remain largely unknown outside academic circles. The month of July brings with it a sense of calm after the heat of summer, offering opportunities for reflection and contemplation. This year’s column focuses on the intersection of science, history, and human ambition, drawing inspiration from the visionary work of early space explorers. One such figure is Herman Potočnik Noordung, a Slovenian engineer who, in the early 1930s, published Problem der Flugbahn im Weltraum, Raketenmotor, a groundbreaking text outlining plans for space travel and the establishment of a permanent space station. His ideas were initially dismissed as fanciful, yet today he is recognized as one of the founding minds of astronautics. Potočnik’s vision of harnessing solar energy from space continues to influence modern space technologies, including satellite power systems and orbital habitats. Among Slovenia’s notable space contributors is Jerry M. Linenger, an American astronaut of Slovenian descent who spent nearly nine months aboard the International Space Station. Linenger’s memoir, In the Void, offers a deeply personal account of life in space, emphasizing the resilience required to endure the harsh conditions of microgravity and isolation. During his mission, he carried a Slovenian flag and an icon of the Virgin Mary, symbolizing the cultural ties between his heritage and the broader human quest for discovery. His journey reflects the broader theme of how individuals from smaller nations can make significant impacts on global endeavors. Other Slovenian-born astronauts include Ronald Šega, Sunita Williams, and Randolph James Bresnik. Sunita Williams, known for her record-breaking time in space, nine months compared to the typical ten-day stays, has become a beacon of perseverance. Her experiences, rooted in the Slovenian Alps, have inspired generations of young scientists and engineers. She frequently returns to her homeland to share her knowledge, especially with students at institutions like the Kranjska Gora Gymnasium, where she once attended lectures by the late physicist Dušan Petrač. Petrač, a respected scholar and advocate for democratic values, remained a steadfast supporter of Slovenia’s political landscape until his passing. Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of renewed interest in lunar colonization and Martian exploration sparked both skepticism and curiosity. While critics viewed his statements as hyperbolic, they also noted the tangible progress made under NASA’s updated programs. Trump’s close ally, Elon Musk, has further accelerated commercial space ventures, demonstrating the potential for private enterprises to lead future space missions. These developments underscore a shift in the global space race, with increased public and private sector engagement. Randolph James Bresnik, another Slovenian-American astronaut, represents the next generation of spacefarers. Born into a family with roots in the villages of Luč and Ljubnega, Bresnik is set to join NASA’s Artemis III mission, which aims to return humans to the Moon. His crew will include an Italian astronaut sent by the European Space Agency, which collaborates closely with Slovenia in aerospace research. This joint effort highlights the interconnected nature of modern space exploration, where national boundaries blur in pursuit of shared goals. As Slovenia continues to contribute to the global space industry, its technological capabilities are becoming more evident. Companies such as Pipistrel, Dewesoft, C-Astral Aerospace, and AMS Flight produce critical components used in spacecraft and satellites. Additionally, facilities in Planica support medical and physiological research conducted in extreme environments, both in space and on Earth. These advancements position Slovenia as a key player in the emerging space economy, despite its relatively small size. With a new government in place, there is optimism that Slovenia’s role in space exploration will continue to expand. The nation is poised to take advantage of its growing expertise and strategic partnerships to shape the future of space travel. As the world looks to the stars, Slovenia’s contributions remind us that even the smallest countries can play a vital part in humanity’s grandest adventures.