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30/04/2026
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From 8–10 April 2026, the Technical University of Munich (TUM), in collaboration with ESA and partners, hosted the 5th Symposium on Space Educational Activities (SSEA), marking the largest edition to date, with more than 500 participants.
Some of the ESA sponsored students at 5th Symposium on Space Educational Activities
This 5th edition exemplified the strength of cooperation across academia, industry and space agencies in delivering and developing space educational activities. The symposium delivered a dynamic and wide-ranging programme, reflecting the continued growth of the space education community.
With 179 oral presentations across parallel technical sessions, complemented by poster sessions and plenary talks, the symposium highlighted the diversity and quality of space educational activities across Europe and beyond. Participants, many presenting at an international conference for the first time, shared projects spanning technical, scientific and interdisciplinary domains, demonstrating both innovation and enthusiasm across all levels of experience, from educator to student to policy-makers.
A key note speech at the 5th Symposium on Space Educational Activities
Plenary sessions addressed ESA and DLR education and career opportunities and examined skills gaps in the European space sector, underlining the importance of preparing the next generation of professionals. Inspirational keynote speakers included ESA’s Rossetta mission manager Paolo Ferri, science communicator Gernot Grömer and former astronaut trainer Laura Winterling.
The programme was further enriched by panel discussions bringing together representatives from industry, academia and agencies to explore future workforce needs and the evolution of space education. These discussions reinforced the importance of strong, sustained collaboration between sectors to support innovation and ensure Europe’s continued leadership in space.
Students visit the ESA Education stand at the 5th Symposium on Space Educational Activities
Beyond the conference sessions, participants engaged directly with 39 organisations across two exhibition halls, featuring industry, institutions and student teams. Exhibits ranged from flown hardware to student-built rockets and rovers, offering valuable opportunities to explore educational pathways and career prospects. Technical visits to leading organisations, including DLR, IABG, the European Southern Observatory and TUM facilities, provided additional insight into Europe’s space ecosystem.
A dedicated ESA Academy side event brought together Fly Your Satellite! teams from across multiple programme cycles, encouraging exchange of experiences and lessons learned, including contributions from the EIRSAT-1 team following the completion of their mission in 2025.
The symposium also included a gala reception hosted by the Bavarian State Chancellery at the Munich Residenz, celebrating the achievements of the community and further strengthening connections between participants. An inspirational talk was also offered by Michaela Benthaus, first wheelchair user in space and current ESA Graduate Trainee.
An Academic panel discussion during the 5th Symposium on Space Educational Activities
Following SSEA, TUM hosted the Munich Space Days on 11 April in collaboration with Yuri’s Night, extending engagement to the public. ESA contributed with a stand and presentation, continuing to inspire future generations and promote opportunities in the space sector.
The success of the 2026 Symposium on Space Educational Activities highlights the growing importance of solid collaboration between ESA, academia, industry and institutional partners, and reinforces the role of the symposium as a key platform for connecting and developing the next generation of space professionals.
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