Montserrat Zeron: Bridging Space and Diplomacy

In high school, Montserrat “Montse” Zeron envisioned a career in international affairs, but she never imagined she could combine that passion with her lifelong fascination with space. As an undergraduate at Florida State University, she discovered the field of space diplomacy. However, it wasn’t until she encountered the American Institute of Physics’ (AIP) oral history program that she realized how to turn her interests into a meaningful career.

As Montse worked on her undergraduate thesis about space diplomacy and the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), she began to see the critical value of firsthand accounts from those involved in this international collaboration. That’s when she learned about AIP’s grants-in-aid program for oral history research, which offered a rare opportunity to dive deeper into the lives of the key figures behind the JWST.

With AIP’s support, Montse traveled across the U.S. and Europe, interviewing important contributors to the JWST. This experience not only provided invaluable material for her research but also introduced her to the meticulous practice of oral history. Guided by AIP’s mentorship, she learned how to craft meaningful questions, listen actively, and document the personal stories that shape scientific history.

Through these interviews, Montse gained a profound appreciation for the human side of scientific discovery—the struggles, triumphs, and collaborations that drive innovation. She realized that beyond policy papers and diplomatic agreements, it is the individuals behind these efforts who bring space diplomacy to life. Their narratives highlight the challenges of international cooperation, the cultural exchanges that shape scientific progress, and the dedication required to advance humanity’s exploration of space.

Read Montse's Oral History with Astrophysicist Edward Weiler

Montse’s work, now part of a growing archive, will inform her own studies and contribute to the broader scientific community. The interviews she conducted will serve as a resource for future researchers, policymakers, and historians, helping shape the understanding of space diplomacy and its role in global collaboration.

Building on this foundational experience, Montse will continue her graduate studies in Washington, D.C., where she will further explore the intersection of space and international policy. She is dedicated to ensuring that the history of global space collaboration informs future diplomatic efforts. For Montse, oral history is more than a research tool—it’s a bridge that connects generations of scientists, policymakers, and visionaries, creating a legacy that will inspire future advancements in space diplomacy.

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