Award for space researcher Thomas Zurbuchen

June 30, 2025

Professor Thomas Zurbuchen, director of ETH Zurich | Space, has been honored with the AIAA von Braun Award for Excellence in Space Program Management. This prestigious recognition highlights his outstanding leadership in groundbreaking NASA missions, including the James Webb Space Telescope, Mars 2020, and Parker Solar Probe.

According to the AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics), Zurbuchen’s ability to lead diverse teams and his commitment to innovation have been pivotal in achieving extraordinary scientific and societal impacts. Upon receiving the award, Zurbuchen emphasized, “Science, combined with bold leadership and collaboration, is one of the most powerful forces for good.”

In the laudation it was said that Zurbuchen has shown visionary leadership, championing innovation to produce exceptional results. “His leadership of the science portfolio has been instrumental in achieving important societal value such as improved weather and space weather predications, novel sensor technologies of broad applicability, and the development of economic opportunities of new and existing U.S. companies.” ETH Zürich (link) president Joel Mesot said: “His expertise, experience and connections contribute significantly to promoting education, research and innovation. Zurbuchen’s open and visionary approach inspires many people to take an interest in space-related topics”.

The official award ceremony will take place in Las Vegas on July 22, 2025.