Portugal in space

In the 14th and 15th centuries, Portugal went discovering and conquering sea and land all over the world. History was forever changed by the courage and bravery of one people. The Portuguese navy introduced new techniques of navigation, using astronomical instruments like the astrolabe.In this paper, some episodes of the Portuguese relation with astronomy and space will be highlighted. These refer not only to governmental measures and decisions, but also to initiatives of the society at large, telling of the important role that this subject has played in the Portuguese society throughout the years.