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The American Astronautical Society awarded the Virtute-1 mission, conducted on June 29, 2023, the 2025 Advancement of International Cooperation Award. This recognition celebrates the mission's impact on global cooperation in space research.

The mission launched from Spaceport America, New Mexico, with an Italian crew including Colonel Walter Villadei, Lieutenant Colonel Angelo Landolfi, and engineer Pantaleone Carlucci. Unlike typical suborbital flights, Virtute-1 was focused on scientific research, conducting 13 experiments on material science, human physiology, and cosmic radiation. The collaboration between the Italian Air Force and the CNR was essential, highlighting the role of government and private sectors in future space exploration.