Georges Estibal (58): a pioneer of the French space adventure leaves us

A visionary and a builder, this graduate of the ENSEA class of 1958 has left his mark on the history of the French space industry. A man of commitment and conviction, he has also always maintained a close link with his school, devoting himself actively to the alumni community.

A native of the Lot-et-Garonne region, Georges Estibal began his training with a CAP (vocational training certificate) as a fitter and draughtsman, before moving on to the École Nationale Professionnelle in Tarbes, then the ENSEA in Cergy in 1958, where he described himself as a "provincial fascinated by Paris". His years at ENSEA marked the start of an exceptional career, a "path to the stars" as he himself described it. Highly involved, he played an active part in the school's community life, joining the student office and campaigning for the school to earn its place among the Grandes Écoles.

In the 1960s, Georges Estibal joined Matra Espace, where he took part in the project for the first French satellite, "Astérix", launched in 1965. His career then took off. Managing Director of Matra Espace in 1986, he became Managing Director of Matra Marconi Space when it merged with the British group in 1990. Under his leadership, the company established itself as a major player in the European space industry, participating in the development of the Ariane rocket and the first telecommunications satellites. His technical skills, strategic sense and humanism earned him the respect and appreciation of his peers and teams alike.

But Georges Estibal didn't stop there. In 1997, at the request of Dominique Baudis, he took over the management of the Cité de l'Espace, which he presided until it became an exceptional place. He went on to hold a number of posts, including deputy mayor of Toulouse and community councillor, always at the service of his city and the aerospace industry. President of the Cercle d'Oc, judge-appointed to the Commercial Court, active member of the Académie de l'air et de l'espace, his involvement in public and associative life reflects his unwavering dedication.

Throughout his career, Georges Estibal has remained a pillar of ENSEA and its alumni network. In 1991, as the school's first class sponsor, he honored the younger generation of engineers by embodying excellence and service. A member of the Board of Directors of the Alumni Association for over a decade, he has never ceased to be an inspirational figure for his peers. His spirit of transmission, fuelled by his passion for space and technology, has left its mark on many young engineers and professionals.