ESA at 50: Honoring the Past, Building the Future of Space Together

Dr. Kam Ghaffarian speaking at the EPFL Space Community Days celebrating ESA's 50th Anniversary.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the European Space Agency (ESA), a powerful moment to reflect on how far we’ve come as a global space community. From robotic missions to the edges of the solar system to groundbreaking international cooperation aboard the International Space Station, ESA has helped humanity look up—and reach farther.

I recently spent a few days in Switzerland celebrating ESA’s 50th anniversary and witnessing the strength of transatlantic collaboration. From Lausanne to Zurich, the energy was unmistakable. In conversations with students, researchers, and leaders, we explored the exponential growth of the space industry, and Europe’s rising impact on the global stage.

Over the last 50 years, there has been a profound shift. The future of space is no longer driven by governments alone. Today, commercial innovation and government purpose converge to shape the next chapter of exploration. I’m proud that many of my companies—Axiom Space, Intuitive Machines, Quantum Space, and X-energy—are helping to drive this transformation, accelerating access to orbit, developing civilization-changing innovations, and expanding what’s possible for humanity.

For example, Axiom Space’s recent missions have opened space to more European nations and industries than ever before. With missions like Ax-3 and the  Ax-4, both with ESA astronauts on board, we’re building a new model where private infrastructure supports sovereign missions, scientific discovery, and global cooperation. Axiom Station, modular, scalable, and built for international collaboration, will define the next chapter in low-Earth orbit, with Europe playing a central role.

Public-private collaboration brings the speed, flexibility, and ingenuity required to meet this moment in rapidly evolving innovations. Technologies like AI and advanced nuclear energy will power breakthroughs in medicine, manufacturing, and materials—transforming life on Earth and enabling us to thrive on the Moon and beyond.

Space is now a strategic advantage, a domain where innovation, security, and human ambition converge. As this new era unfolds, working with trusted allies who share our values has never been more important.

The roadmap ahead is bold: orbital labs, lunar bases, Mars settlements, and eventually, interstellar exploration. But success in this next era depends on deep collaboration between government and industry—and strong partnerships among nations that share a vision for humanity’s future beyond Earth.

ESA has shown the world what’s possible when we work together. For 50 years, it has advanced science, deepened international trust, and inspired generations. As we look to the decades ahead, its legacy will not just be what it built—but what it made possible.

Congratulations to ESA on five decades of excellence. Here’s to the next 50 year!

-Dr. Kam Ghaffarian is a pioneering entrepreneur specializing in disruptive technologies and strategic innovation, with a track record of founding industry-leading firms and driving advancements in energy, aerospace, and space exploration.

Lead Boldly: Lessons from the Arena

I am an avid reader and have long admired historical figures like Theodore Roosevelt. His leadership lessons are timeless. I believe that leadership is a continuous process of personal growth and evolution. Roosevelt emphasized the importance of taking action, leading by example, and being authentic.

One of my favorite passages comes from his 1910 speech "Citizenship in a Republic," popularly known as "Man in the Arena":

"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat."

In today's world of 24/7 digital media, it's easy to criticize those in the public eye. Yet, as Roosevelt pointed out, what truly matters is taking action and pursuing bold goals, rather than sitting on the sidelines, consumed with judgment and inaction.

One key lesson I've learned on my journey is that creating companies with expansive missions—such as being the first private entity to land on the moon, building the first private commercial space station, or developing revolutionary nuclear reactors that are 100% safe—requires immense courage and innovation. The path is rarely linear; it is filled with ups and downs. However, making a positive difference for the future of humanity demands a resilient and optimistic approach, even in the face of criticism. Almost all of today's renowned companies—like Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, SpaceX, Tesla, and OpenAI—have navigated similar challenges. Personally, I would much rather engage in a purposeful, altruistic journey in the arena than sit on the sidelines.

I humbly offer the following three inspired lessons drawn from my own journey, my readings, and the words of Roosevelt:

1. Courage Over Comfort – "Dare mighty things."

Success requires stepping into the unknown and taking risks. Growth comes from tackling audacious challenges, not from playing it safe. Encourage a culture of innovation where employees feel secure experimenting with new ideas, knowing that failure is part of the process.

2. Resilience – "It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed."

Failure is inevitable in business, but how you respond defines your success. Cultivate a culture of resilience by turning obstacles into learning opportunities and promoting a mindset of continuous improvement, where setbacks are valued as lessons.

3. Focus on Action – "The only man who never makes mistakes is the man who never does anything."

Some leaders can be paralyzed by the fear of mistakes or criticism. Leadership requires action, staying true to your core values, and leading by example. Stay focused on your mission and encourage initiatives aligned with the vision. As Roosevelt said, "Work with the tools at hand" and deliver results.

Leaders are learners, constantly seeking growth. True leadership belongs to those willing to face challenges head-on and dare greatly, regardless of the outcome. Our place is not with the timid souls who watch from afar, but in the arena, where we risk failure in pursuit of something greater.

-Dr. Kam Ghaffarian is a pioneering entrepreneur specializing in disruptive technologies and strategic innovation, with a track record of founding industry-leading firms and driving advancements in energy, aerospace, and space exploration.

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The Apollo 11 Mission's 55th Anniversary Is a Tribute to American Leadership

Fifty-five years ago today, the historic Moon landing of Apollo 11 sparked a passion for space within me that has lasted a lifetime. As an 11-year-old in Iran, I was captivated by watching the grainy black-and-white images on my neighbor's television. This transformative moment, which united the world, deeply inspired me and set me on a career path of exploration and innovation that has spanned four decades.

Today, I'm proud to help lead organizations like Axiom Space, Intuitive Machines, X-energy, Quantum Space, and Limitless Space Institute. Each is at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of technology. My entrepreneurial journey, inspired by Apollo 11, is dedicated to encouraging and benefiting future generations, just as NASA and America's space accomplishments inspired me.

The legacy of Apollo 11 is a testament to the power of collective effort. The crew's decision to omit their names from the mission patch was a humble acknowledgment of the thousands of men and women who contributed to the mission. As astronaut Michael Collins eloquently put it, "We wanted to keep our three names off it because there were thousands who could take a proprietary interest in it, yet who would never see their names woven into the fabric of a patch." This act of humble leadership serves as a powerful reminder that great achievements are the result of teamwork. As we mark this Apollo 11 mission's milestone, I am filled with gratitude for those who paved the way for the future of humanity's journey of exploration and discovery.

Navigating the Entrepreneurial Journey: Perseverance and Resilience

Perseverance and resilience are the cornerstones of success, whether in business or life. 

As an entrepreneur, I've learned that keeping the end goal in sight and refusing to give up, no matter the obstacles, is crucial. Much like running a marathon, the entrepreneurial journey may commence smoothly, only to encounter unexpected challenges along the way. During these tough times, a strong and optimistic mindset becomes essential. Surrounding oneself with positive influences and taking time to recharge parallels the encouragement of cheering spectators and rest stops during a race.

Throughout my career, I've encountered my fair share of ups and downs, facing setbacks that demanded recalibration and adaptation to forge ahead toward my objectives.

In the early days of running my first major business venture, SGT, an engineering services company, we struggled with a daunting 10% win ratio on government contract pursuits. Determined to turn things around, my team and I immersed ourselves in learning the intricacies of procurements and proposals and developing winning solutions. By reevaluating our approach and adopting new strategies focused on customer needs, we increased our win ratio to an impressive 80%, well above industry standards.

In these pivotal moments, the words of Winston Churchill served as a mantra: "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." This optimistic attitude, always seeking opportunities amid challenges, has been my guiding light, fueling my resilience in the face of adversity.

Today, I'm chairman of multiple startups aiming to solve some of humanity's biggest challenges. Building the right team and fostering a culture of perseverance and resilience are crucial for any startup. This mindset is essential to confidently push forward and keep the team focused on the big picture amidst challenges.

In the end, perseverance and resilience are not just traits but a way of life. They drive every success story, enabling growth and overcoming obstacles encountered along the way.

To Infinity and Beyond - Speaking at Collision in Toronto

I recently traveled to Toronto to speak at the Collision Conference. Joined by about 40,000 attendees, I shared my lifelong passion for space that began in childhood. During my talk, we explored the expansive future of the space economy, highlighting projects from our portfolio companies, ranging from moon landers to space stations. I also delved into the transformative potential of technologies developed in microgravity, which could revolutionize multiple Earth-based industries. Watch and let me know what you think.

The Moon: Entering A New Phase of Discovery

On February 22, a new chapter in space exploration began as Intuitive Machines' Odysseus lunar lander made its historic arrival on the Moon's south pole. This event heralded America's return to the lunar surface, but more profoundly, it signaled the start of a new phase of discovery where the creativity of the private sector fuels the boundless potential of space exploration.

Sitting with my fellow co-founders, Steve Altemus and Tim Crain, the dream of landing on the Moon evolved from a spark to a roaring flame. Amidst the challenges, our unwavering resolve and strong partnerships with NASA and commercial partners enabled the path for Odysseus to reach the Moon and secure success against all odds.

IM-1's Odysseus collected invaluable data farther south on the lunar surface than any vehicle has ever explored, successfully delivering U.S. Government payloads. The mission tested new technologies and innovations and opened opportunities for new markets and products worldwide while achieving these feats at a fraction of traditional costs. It solidified that the Moon is no longer the exclusive realm of governments. Intuitive Machines is redefining space exploration, and we have only just begun.

The Moon is a critical stepping stone toward humanity's ultimate future: traveling among the stars. One day soon, humans will become a multi-planetary species. Once only the topic of science fiction, today, engineers, business leaders, and the world's top minds are focused on unlocking the limitless possibilities of life on the Moon, Mars, and other celestial bodies and finding solutions for the benefit of the people of Earth.

Exploration has always been driven by bold visionaries and collaborative efforts. IM-1's triumph was a testament to the power of unity and shared purpose. The spirit of collaboration and determination propelled it to success, but our ultimate journey is far from over. Let us continue to reach for the stars and explore this new era, where the cosmos is not just inspiration but our next big destination for our journey ahead. What comes next is only limited by our imagination.

Dr. Kam Ghaffarian is a pioneering entrepreneur and engineer specializing in disruptive technologies and strategic innovation, with a track record of founding industry-leading firms and driving advancements in energy, aerospace, and space exploration.