Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung has urged the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology and the Vietnam Space Center to transform into the country’s top facility for space technology and satellite manufacturing.

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The Vietnam Space Museum is one of the projects celebrating the 80th National Day on September 2 and the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology. Photo: Du Lam

On August 21, the Vietnam Space Center inaugurated the Vietnam Space Museum at Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park. The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung, Professor Chau Van Minh, Chairman of the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, and Associate Professor Pham Anh Tuan, General Director of the Vietnam Space Center.

“Impressed - Admired - Proud” were the three words Nguyen Chi Dung used after touring the museum.

The Vietnam Space Museum, launched in October 2022, covers more than 3,000 square meters with both indoor and outdoor exhibitions. The outdoor area showcases solar system planet models and a sundial. Indoors, two floors feature scientific experiments on light, sound, Newton’s laws of motion and gravity, astronomy displays, models of satellites, and a mock-up of the International Space Station. A highlight is the observatory tower with a 500mm optical telescope, alongside a dome-shaped planetarium with a 12-meter diameter accommodating 100 visitors.

The museum is one of several projects celebrating Vietnam’s 80th National Day and the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology. It is expected to inspire young people and the wider public with a passion for space science.

Speaking at the ceremony, Nguyen Chi Dung called the museum a milestone in the decade-long journey of Vietnam’s space program, highlighting successful satellite projects and growing domestic expertise in this highly specialized field.

“In today’s global race for technology, including space exploration, challenges are immense but opportunities are significant. With strategic investment, strong policies, and better working conditions, Vietnam can not only catch up but also leap ahead in selected areas,” he said.

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Deputy Prime Minister Nguyễn Chí Dũng visited the Vietnam Space Museum on the morning of August 21. Photo: Du Lam

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The Space STEAM area is designed for students to visit and explore. Photo: Du Lam

He emphasized the importance of improving researcher welfare, working conditions, and professional development while laying out five key directives:

First, the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology and the Space Center must focus on delivering objectives set in the national space science and technology strategy to 2030, with priority on developing low-Earth orbit satellites.

Second, research projects should be practical, feasible, and aligned with national needs, with clear timelines and priorities.

Third, the Academy should actively connect with the national innovation ecosystem and partner with global pioneers such as Viettel, SpaceX, and Amazon to optimize resources, attract international experts, and accelerate competitive product development.

Fourth, human resource training must be prioritized. Developing strong research groups and investing in laboratories, advanced equipment, and international-standard facilities is essential. Dung stressed that the government is willing to fund high-risk scientific projects if they contribute to long-term breakthroughs.

Fifth, greater effort should be made to promote STEM education and inspire younger generations to pursue careers in space technology.

“The Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology and the Vietnam Space Center must become the nation’s leading satellite manufacturing hub, and gradually develop into a regional and global research powerhouse,” Mr. Dung affirmed.

Du Lam