Over 43,000 students and teachers from schools in Poland and Polish diaspora schools around the world participated in a unique, international online lesson from the Polish Pavilion at EXPO 2025 in Osaka. The special guest was Dr. Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, a European Space Agency astronaut, the first Pole on the International Space Station (ISS), and a participant in the first Polish science and technology mission, IGNIS. The lesson was organized jointly with the Polish Investment and Trade Agency.
During the meeting, led by Michał Polak, Vice President of the Warsaw Institute of Banking, students and teachers had the opportunity to learn about Dr. Uznański-Wiśniewski's educational process, what subjects he enjoyed at school, and how recruitment for the European Astronaut Corps was conducted and how long it took.
„"The overwhelming interest in the lesson – over 43,000 participants – is proof that space science and education can capture the imagination of young people. Dr. Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski certainly inspired thousands of students to fulfill their dreams today," emphasizes Vice President Michał Polak.
There were also topics directly related to the IGNIS mission, which took place at the turn of June and July 2025 and was the first Polish science and technology mission. The Polish astronaut discussed what the flight to the ISS was like, how long it lasted, and what were the breakthrough moments, including the opportunity to view Earth from the Cupola observation module on the ISS.
The Polish astronaut also spoke about life on the ISS and the research and experiments he conducted during his time in space. He emphasized that these experiments are of enormous importance for the development of the Polish space sector and, consequently, the entire Polish economy.
It was a unique lesson in passion, determination, and fulfilling dreams. We thank all participants and invite them to future events organized by the Warsaw Institute of Banking.
