Preliminary Programme

Join us for a full day of inspiring talks, engaging conversations and interactive activities exploring asteroids, space missions, planetary defence, space careers, astronaut experiences and the future of space education.

The programme is currently being finalised and may be subject to change.

10:00 – 10:20 Opening

The festival opens with welcome remarks and an introduction to the day: why space matters, why planetary defence concerns us all, and how science, exploration and education come together at Asteroid Day.

10:20 – 10:40 Astéroïdes : petits objets, grands enjeux – Talk in French

Why do asteroids matter? Discover how these small celestial bodies open big questions for science, exploration and planetary defence.

10:40 – 11:20 Designing Space Missions: From Concept to Launch

What does it take to turn a bold idea into a real space mission? Go behind the scenes of space exploration, from scientific ambition to mission design and mission planning.

11:20 – 11:30 Break 

11:30 – 12:20 Unconventional Space Careers

Who gets to work in space? More people than you might think. From psychology and medicine to communication, storytelling and mission-related roles, space brings together a much wider range of careers than most people imagine.

12:20 – 13:30 Lunch Break & Interactive Booths

Take time to explore the festival beyond the stage. Meet our partners, discover interactive activities, visit the booths and continue the conversation with the experts and organisations present throughout the day.

13:30 – 14:10 Why Space Matters on Earth

Space is much closer to our daily lives than we often realise. From everyday applications to wider questions around sustainability, resources and innovation, space helps us better understand and respond to challenges on Earth.

14:10 – 14:30 Asteroids: Small Objects, Big Impact

Why do asteroids matter on a global scale? A fresh international perspective on these small celestial bodies and their importance for science, exploration and planetary defence.

14:30 – 15:10 Asteroids & Comets: Uncovering the Secrets of Our Solar System

Asteroids and comets are among the most intriguing objects in our Solar System. Explore what they can reveal about space, discovery and origins and nature of our cosmic neighbourhood.

15:10 – 15:50 Planetary Defence: Protecting Earth from Asteroids

How do we detect, assess and respond to asteroid risks? Go to the heart of planetary defence, where science, observation and international cooperation come together to help protect our planet.

15:50 – 16:10 Asteroid Signals: Detecting Threats, Assessing Uncertainty Fireside Chat

How do we make sense of risk when information is incomplete, complex or still evolving? A thoughtful conversation on signals, uncertainty and the decisions that shape how we understand potential threats.

16:10 – 16:30 Europe’s Future in Space

Session under confirmation

What role will Europe play in the next chapter of space exploration and innovation? A forward-looking discussion on Europe’s ambitions, capabilities and place within the global space ecosystem.

16:30 – 17:20 Astronaut Panel

Step into the human side of space exploration. Hear personal perspectives from astronauts on space, life beyond Earth and the experience of seeing our planet from above.

17:20 – 17:50 Inclusive Space Education

Who gets to be part of the future of space? A final thematic reflection on how space science and education can become more accessible, inclusive and inspiring for wider audiences.

17:50 – 18:00 Closing

A final moment to reflect on a day dedicated to science, exploration, planetary defence and the shared future of space.