Marcus Wandt: Why Europe Must Take the Lead in Space

Recently featured in Dagens Nyheter and live on stage at #WITswe2025, Swedish astronaut Marcus Wandt brought space a little closer to home—and reminded us why it matters more than ever.

Published:

May 2, 2025

1 min read

As only the third Swede to travel to space, Marcus has a rare perspective—not only on life in orbit but on the urgent need for Europe to step up in the global space race. “When values are shaking globally,” he said during his talk, “it’s more important than ever to have something to bring to the negotiation table.”

Currently Chief Innovation Officer at Saab, Marcus sees a direct link between space infrastructure and geopolitical stability. In a world where China and the US dominate space investment, he believes Europe has both the talent and the industrial strength—but now must take bold steps to lead.

His message is clear: space isn’t just about exploration—it’s about security, sovereignty, and shaping the future here on Earth.