About ISU
The International Space University develops the future leaders of the world space community. It provides interdisciplinary educational programs to students and space professionals in an international, intercultural environment.
A unique Global Network
ISU is the sole university worldwide devoted entirely to space education since 1987.
Today, ISU is made up of a unique network around the world with a Central Campus in Strasbourg, with hubs in the USA and the Asia Pacific region, and partnerships with leading space organizations worldwide.
ISU is a 35-year success story with 5600 alumni shaping the international space ecosystem in 110 countries including astronauts and entrepreneurs along with current and former space industry and government leaders.
The International Space University is a private non-profit institution, formally recognized as an institute of higher education in France by the French Ministry of Education (decree MENS0400386A of 27 February 2004). ISU is also recognized by other agencies and universities.
Evolution of the Space Sector
Today, we rely increasingly on space assets for our economy and many other aspects of our everyday lives. The space sector is increasingly integrated with global economic sectors. Space is key for a better understanding of our planet Earth, climate change, and for supporting the world’s overall socio-economic development in the years to come.
The evolving space economy with new and emerging space countries, is developing a vibrant commercial and public space sector, with new unprecedented entrepreneurial leadership and private investment, offering
ISU students and professionals exciting future perspectives. These translate after studying at ISU into great opportunities for employment in academia, space agencies, or in the booming space industry. It is simply a smart decision to receive an ISU space education right now.
Joining ISU means living and working in a unique international, interdisciplinary and intercultural environment and preparing for game-changing space endeavors – a rewarding and unforgettable experience!
ISU Students and Participants benefit from
- The expertise of international renowned faculty and visiting lecturers
- The largest worldwide alumni network in the space sector Access to cutting-edge resources for space education and training
- Front row seats to the evolution of a booming space sector that provides ample opportunities for innovation, interesting jobs and career development
- The strategic partnerships formed by ISU with government agencies and industry, research centers, universities, and other international organizations
- The friendships and contacts made at ISU that enrich professional and personal development
The three 'I's
Building on specialist knowledge already acquired, ISU relates this to all aspects influencing the successful outcome of space development and use.
At ISU, programs are:
Global networking opportunities and intensive teamwork practices at ISU give its diverse student body the edge when performing in competitive and collaborative international space programs.
Interacting with people from a variety of different backgrounds: academic, cultural, and national, with varied approaches to problem solving and occasionally conflicting objectives. Preparing ISU students for the multicultural environment of today’s world space community.
Broad-based educational programs that encompass all disciplines relevant to space scientific, engineering, economic, regulatory, political, and organizational provide students with a multi-dimensional perspective, vital for understanding and effectively dealing with complex space development and utilization issues.
ISU Impact
Alumni Astronauts
Jessica Meir (MSS2000)
Jim Newman (SSP89)
Soyeon Yi (SSP09)
Alumni Entrepreneurs
More than 100 space start-ups founded by ISU alumni in 27 countries.
ISU Credo
“WE, THE FOUNDERS of the International Space University, do hereby set forth this Credo as the basis for fulfilling ISU’s goals and full potential.
INTERNATIONAL SPACE UNIVERSITY is an institution founded on the vision of a peaceful, prosperous and boundless future through the study, exploration and development of Space for the benefit of all humanity.
ISU is an institution dedicated to international affiliations, collaboration, and open, scholarly pursuits related to outer space exploration and development. It is a place where students and faculty from all backgrounds are welcomed; where diversity of culture, philosophy, lifestyle, training and opinion are honored and nurtured.
ISU is an institution which recognizes the importance of interdisciplinary studies for the successful exploration and development of space. ISU strives to promote an understanding and appreciation of the Cosmos through the constant evolution of new programs and curricula in relevant areas of study. To this end, ISU will be augmented by an expanding base of campus facilities, networks and affiliations both on and off the Earth.
ISU is an institution dedicated to the development of the human species, the preservation of its home planet, the increase of knowledge, the rational utilization of the vast resources of the Cosmos, and the sanctity of Life in all terrestrial and extraterrestrial manifestations.
ISU is a place where students and scholars seek to understand the mysteries of the Cosmos and apply their knowledge to the betterment of the human condition. It is the objective of ISU to be an integral part of Humanity’s movement into the Cosmos, and to carry forth all the principles and philosophies embodied in this Credo.
THIS, THEN, IS THE CREDO OF ISU. For all who join ISU, we welcome you to a new and growing family. It is hoped that each of you, as leaders of industry, academia and government will work together to fulfill the goals set forth herein. Together, we shall aspire to the Stars with wisdom, vision and effort.”
Peter H. Diamandis, Todd B. Hawley, Robert D. Richards
12 April 1995
