Where It all started...

Our story began in late 2020 with a simple idea and a small WhatsApp group. Three space enthusiasts, connected by curiosity and a shared fascination with space exploration, started exchanging messages, questions, and ambitions. What began as casual conversations soon grew into something bigger: a vision of building a space-focused community driven by young talent.

As months passed, the group evolved. New members joined, others followed different paths, and the idea matured. In 2023, that vision became reality with the formal founding of North Space. Since then, the association has grown into a multidisciplinary community actively developing hands-on aerospace projects, exploring new frontiers of research, and preparing its members for careers in the space sector. Today, North Space stands as proof that great journeys often start small and that the future of space is built by those bold enough to imagine it.

50

2023

Year of foundation

Members

"Founding North Space was, for me, like creating a school of engineering, physics, and teamwork, where we are constantly challenged to know ourselves better, so that we can live life with more perspective."

João Barbot

"Founding North Space has been one of the greatest adventures of my academic and professional life. It was not only the realization of a personal dream but also the opportunity to make my dream accessible to many others who might not have had the chance if this organization didn’t exist. I take immense pride in breaking down barriers and proving that anyone with determination can achieve their goals, even if it's outside their field or without formal training..."

João Coutinho

The Founders

Mission & Vision

North Space envisions a future where Portugal plays an active and visible role in the global space sector. We aim to be the meeting point for all those who want to participate in and drive this future, connecting academia, industry, and young talent in an environment where collaboration and innovation thrive.

We believe that space is for everyone. By welcoming young people from diverse backgrounds, from engineering and science to medicine, law, and management, we show that space exploration and development are built on multidisciplinary thinking and shared ambition. Through hands-on projects, research, and educational initiatives, we create opportunities to learn, experiment, and grow.

By fostering cooperation, curiosity, and a passion for the unknown, North Space strives to be an example of how diverse disciplines can come together to open new frontiers. United by a common vision, we work to create meaningful impact and shape the future of space in Portugal.