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Daniel Neuenschwander
Director of Human and Robotic Exploration
ESA
Daniel Neuenschwander, born in Berne, Switzerland, is an accomplished aerospace professional with an extensive background in space exploration and international relations. Before joining the European Space Agency (ESA), Neuenschwander served as Head of the Swiss Space Office (SSO), Swiss Delegation to ESA, and Chairman of the Programme Board Launchers (PB-LAU). He was also the Deputy of the Swiss State Secretary for Space Affairs, contributing to the ESA Co-Presidency at the Ministerial level.Neuenschwander's early career began in aviation, where he trained as a Swiss Air Force pilot. He holds a Master’s Degree in physical geography and climatology from the University of Fribourg and an airline transport pilot license from the Swissair Aviation School in Zurich. His career in space exploration took off as the Space Exploration and International Relations Programme Manager for the SSO, followed by his role as the Permanent Swiss Delegate to ESA in Paris.Throughout his career, Neuenschwander has held several influential positions, including ESA Censor for Arianespace, Chair of the Inter-ministerial Coordination Committee for Space Affairs, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Swiss Space Center, and Board Member of the International Space Science Institute. He also chaired the ESA Council Working Group on European participation in the International Space Station, further solidifying his expertise in international space cooperation.