On September 24, 2025, USTH, in collaboration with the French Embassy in Vietnam and the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), will host a round table featuring distinguished guests:
- Claudie Haigneré – the first French woman in space, astronaut, scientist, and politician
- Jean-Pierre Haigneré – French Air Force pilot and veteran astronaut
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Guillaume Patanchon – space scientist, Director of Space and Earth Sciences
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngo Duc Thanh – space scientist, Co-Director of Space and Earth Sciences
The event highlights the strategic role of space science in today’s global context, where ecological, technological, and societal challenges call for international cooperation and interdisciplinary approaches.
At the event, Claudie Haigneré will share inspiring stories of her journey to becoming an astronaut and her unique experiences in space. Participants will also gain insights into space research and its practical applications on Earth through the perspectives of experts in the field.
In addition, the round table offers opportunities for direct interaction, questions, and exchanges with the speakers, providing knowledge on key aspects of space research, such as:
- Shaping the relationship between humanity, Earth, and the universe
- Promoting international cooperation, especially between Vietnam and France in science and technology
- Bridging scientific research, innovation, and humanism—where science serves both as knowledge and as inspiration for sustainable development
Program details:
Time: 10:30 AM – Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Venue: Nguyen Van Hieu Auditorium, 8th Floor, University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (USTH), 18 Hoang Quoc Viet, Nghia Do, Hanoi
Languages: Simultaneous French – Vietnamese translation
Free entrance
The event promises to offer both an engaging academic and practical experience, while deepening the understanding of the value and applications of space research.
Registration: [Registration link]
| Claudie Haigneré is internationally recognized as the first French female astronaut and the first European female astronaut to serve on the ISS. Trained as a rheumatologist, she earned her PhD in Neuroscience with a specialization in sensory neurophysiology. Selected by CNES (French Space Agency) in 1985, she contributed extensively to life sciences and space medicine programs.
She flew on two space missions: Mir (1996) and the International Space Station (2001) under the European Space Agency (ESA). Beyond her astronautical career, she served as French Minister for Research (2002–2004) and Minister for European Affairs (2004–2005). From 2009 to 2015, she directed Universcience, overseeing France’s two largest public science centers. Later, as Advisor to the Director General of ESA, she concentrated on European space policy and lunar exploration initiatives. Her contributions extend to promoting STEM engagement among youth and women as an active member of various foundations and organizations, including the L’Oréal Foundation, CGénial Foundation, Airbus Foundation, and Van Allen Foundation. She is a member of the French Academy of Technology and holds the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the French Air and Space Force Citizen Reserve. |
