Research astronaut Tibor Kapu has been awarded the prestigious ‘Person of the Year’ public media prize for his services to Hungarian science and his inspiring personality. The ceremony took place in the Hungarian capital on Friday, where Kapu accepted the award in a festive event.

Kapu, a mechanical engineer who has previously received the Hungarian Order of St. Stephen, was honored for his professional excellence and his exemplary modesty. The award recognizes his dual achievements in space exploration and his ability to connect with the public through science communication.

Anita Altorjai, CEO of public broadcaster Duna, praised Kapu in her laudatory speech. She noted that despite his journey to space, Kapu ‘has both feet firmly on the ground.’ Altorjai also highlighted his ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible to younger generations, calling him a worthy ambassador for Hungary.

The award is tied to Kapu’s historic Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission. On June 25, 2025, Kapu became the second Hungarian research astronaut to travel to the International Space Station (ISS), where he spent 18 days as part of an international team led by Commander Peggy Whitson.

During his time in space, Kapu oversaw 25 scientific experiments, all of which were developed in Hungary. In his acceptance speech, he credited the scientists who worked behind the scenes and highlighted several major achievements, including the first cultivation of vegetables in the same atmosphere as the astronauts — a milestone for future long-term space missions.

Kapu also discussed innovative research, such as ‘soft cells’ inspired by the Gömböc, and nanofiber studies aimed at advancing future medicine. He emphasized that the Hungarian scientific portfolio has never been more diverse.

For Kapu, the mission is far from over. He aims to further consolidate the synergies of Hungarian space research and to put more Hungarian names on the global science map.

Kapu now joins a list of high-profile honorees, including Nobel Prize winners Katalin Karikó and Ferenc Krausz, as well as composer György Kurtág. The ‘Person of the Year’ award was established in 2020 and has since recognized individuals who shape the future through knowledge, responsibility, and humanity.