Tsar Simeon II congratulated Maxim and Veneta Behar following their space training in the United States.

His Majesty Tsar Simeon II received Maxim Behar and his wife Veneta at the Vrana Royal Palace following their return from specialized space training in the United States. The meeting took place yesterday, just days after the two became the first Bulgarians to graduate with distinction from the advanced participants program at the NASA U.S. Space & Rocket Center  one of the most prestigious astronaut training facilities in the world.

“This is an achievement Bulgaria can be proud of. To be first means to pave the way  and in your case, it is a path that inspires young people to think boldly, to take an interest in science, and to look at space as a real opportunity,” His Majesty said during the meeting.

During the visit, they discussed the role of such initiatives in promoting not only science, but also astronautics, space technologies, and engineering disciplines  fields that are fundamental to future technological development and the competitiveness of any modern economy. The importance of more inspiring examples was also emphasized, encouraging young people in Bulgaria to pursue education and careers in space exploration and related high-tech industries.

“The most important thing for us is that this experience shows and proves that there are no limits. If you can imagine something, you can achieve it. We hope more young Bulgarians will dare to follow this path,” commented Maxim Behar.

Maxim and Veneta Behar completed the intensive program as part of the “Hello, Space!” project of the Atlantic Club in Bulgaria  an international initiative with limited access, held once a year for a small number of participants from around the world. As part of the training, they took part in realistic simulations of space missions  from working in zero gravity and EVA training to operating systems and conducting a full mission to Mars. The program recreates conditions as close as possible to real space flights.

The “Hello, Space! Bulgaria Speaking” festival will take place on June 26–27, 2026, at Sofia Tech Park and, for the sixth consecutive year, will bring together scientists, engineers, and thousands of young people inspired by science, technology, and space.