Recognition award from the PRO AERO Foundation for Professor Daniel Neuenschwander

The PRO AERO Foundation's recognition award for outstanding achievements in aviation goes to Professor Daniel Neuenschwander in 2025. The prize was presented to the Director of the Human and Robotic Exploration Department at the European Space Agency (ESA) by a delegation from the PRO AERO Foundation Board, led by President Markus Gygax, in Cologne.

Born in Bern, Daniel Neuenschwander trained as a pilot in the Swiss Air Force, obtained a Master's degree in physical geography and climatology and holds a commercial pilot's license. From 2002 to 2006, he was Program Manager for Space Research and International Relations at the Swiss Space Office (SSO) and was the permanent Swiss delegate to the ESA until 2009. From July 2016 to June 2023, he served as ESA Director for Launchers (now Space Transportation Systems). Since July 1, 2023, he has been Director of the Human and Robotic Exploration (HRE) Division

"It was a pleasure and a great honor to receive the 'Recognition Award 2025' from the President of PRO AERO, Markus Gygax. Let me emphasize how much I share the goals of PRO AERO, which aim to inspire young girls and boys and spark their interest in two of the most fascinating fields: aviation and aerospace," said Daniel Neuenschwander at the award ceremony

The PRO AERO Foundation was established in 1938 on the initiative of the Swiss Aero Club with the support of the Swiss Federal Aviation Office. The foundation aims to promote Swiss aviation, particularly among young people and in the field of sporting activities, and pays due attention not only to the promotion of flight safety but also to environmental protection. For example, the foundation finances the annual youth camp in Samedan, where 180 pupils from all over Switzerland aged between 14 and 16 are informed about aviation topics and professions. pd