Held under the theme “The World Needs More Space”, IAC 2026 in Antalya brought together the global space community, reinforced space’s strategic importance in addressing global challenges and supporting sustainable development and drove innovation while empowering the next generation of space leaders. 

For Eurisy, IAC also provided an important opportunity to reconnect with members and partners. A key highlight was the Eurisy Members Forum, hosted at the ESA booth and opened by Eurisy President Eric Morel de Westgaver, who presented the Eurisy 2040 Strategy. This was followed by a keynote address from ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher, who highlighted Eurisy’s unique role in connecting the space sector with society and emphasised the need to engage communities beyond the traditional space ecosystem.     

“We need to look beyond the space bubble, ensuring that space solutions are known and used by society, while also bringing external perspectives into the sector to help shape its future.” – ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher

The Forum also welcomed Juan Carlos Cortés, Director of the Spanish Space Agency, who presented Barcelona’s candidacy to host IAC 2029. Built around the theme of water, the bid reflects the growing recognition of space as a key enabler for addressing some of society’s most pressing challenges. His intervention also highlighted the strengthening relationship between the Spanish Space Agency and Eurisy, building on the successful collaboration initiated at Space Debate Europe in Madrid. It further reflected the Agency’s interest in deepening its engagement with the association, including its intention to join Eurisy as a member, opening new avenues for cooperation in the years ahead. 

Eric Morel de Westgaver, President of Eurisy, with Juan Carlos Cortés, Director of the Spanish Space Agency, and Josef Aschbacher, Director General of ESA.

Bringing together representatives from across our membership and beyond, the Forum served as a platform for strategic dialogue. Among the participants: the upcoming ESA Director of Strategy, Legal and External Affairs, Jean-Luc Trullemans, and directors and delegations from ESA, EUMETSAT, CNES (France), ASI (Italy), DLR (Germany), the UK Space Agency, the Turkish Space Agency, BELSPO (Belgium), the Netherlands Space Agency, POLSA (Poland), the Slovenian Space Office, Institute of Space Studies of Catalonia, the Portuguese Space Agency, the Slovak Space Office, as well as representatives from our partner ESPI. 

Žaklin Butinar, Eurisy Deputy Secretary General, together with Heriberto Saldivar, Eurisy Vice President, Eric Morel de Westgaver, Eurisy President, and Josef Aschbacher, Director General of ESA. 

Ahead of the Congress, Žaklin Butinar, Eurisy Deputy Secretary General, Euriscontributed to the 33rd UN/IAF Workshop on Space Economy Opportunities for Emerging Nations on October the 4th. In her contribution “Crossing the Valley of Death: From the Demand Side”, she argued that the main challenge facing many space ventures is not technology, but adoption. While startups often receive support to develop their solutions, long-term success depends on building a committed user base and responding to real societal and institutional needs. 

Žaklin Butinar, Eurisy Deputy Secretary General, Philip Thomas (ESA, UK) and Nathalie Ricard (UNOOSA)

Press Release: Eurisy at the 77th International Astronautical Congress

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Eurisy is pleased to welcome Eric Morel de Westgaver as its new President, marking an exciting new chapter for the association and its mission to promote the societal benefits of space. 

Eric Morel de Westgaver joins Eurisy with an outstanding career in the European space sector, bringing nearly four decades of leadership and expertise gained at the European Space Agency (ESA).  Since beginning his ESA career in 1987 as an Industrial Policy Officer, he has held a wide range of senior management positions spanning industrial policy, procurement, legal affairs, international relations, and strategic planning.  Throughout his career at ESA, he has helped shape some of the Agency’s most important industrial, legal, and strategic frameworks. His extensive experience has contributed to strengthening ESA’s role within the European space ecosystem and fostering cooperation among institutional and industrial stakeholders across Europe and beyond. 

After serving as Director of Industry, Procurement and Legal Services, Eric was appointed Director of European, Legal and International Matters in 2021. In April 2024, he took on the role of Director of Strategy, Legal and External Matters, where he has played a key role in supporting ESA’s strategic development and expanding its international partnerships and engagement. 

Space Debate Europe in Madrid last September marked Eric’s first public engagement in his capacity as Eurisy President. During the event, he officially unveiled the Eurisy 2040 Strategy, setting out a vision for the association’s future and reaffirming its mission to strengthen the connection between space and society by “Making Space Matter.”

As Eurisy continues to connect space solutions with societal needs and strengthen collaboration between the space sector and end-user communities, his leadership, vision, and deep understanding of the European space landscape will be invaluable assets.  

“As technology, society and governance become ever more interconnected, Eurisy has a unique role to play at the interface between space and non-space sectors. As President, I look forward to strengthening Eurisy’s strategic position and visibility, while helping expand its impact and bring the benefits of space to new communities.” 

As Eric Morel de Westgaver begins his term as President, Eurisy is entering a new chapter, with an ambitious focus and vision.  

We warmly welcome Eric Morel de Westgaver to Eurisy and look forward to an inspiring and successful presidency ahead.  

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The unique event offered a multi-dimensional perspective on space, bringing together political, industrial, strategic and societal perspectives. The new approach aimed to broaden the conversation beyond the space sector itself and highlight the connections between space activities and wider markets, societal challenges and opportunities. Bringing society to the heart of the conversation, Eurisy led the Society Track, “Seeing the Unseen: Space at the Service of Society.” The track brought a distinct, society-centred perspective to the programme, creating a platform for societal voices, experiences and needs that are often underrepresented in traditional space events. 

The Society Track opened with a keynote address by Eurisy President Eric Morel de Westgaver, marking his first speech in this new capacity. During his remarks, he officially unveiled Eurisy’s 2040 Strategy, outlining a vision for the association’s future and its mission to strengthen the connection between space and society under the banner “Making Space Matter.” 

Access the Eurisy 2040 Strategy here

“Eurisy was born in 1989. Back then, for most Europeans, space was science fiction. Space was Star Wars at cinema. (…) Today space is not out there. It is right here.”  (Eric Morel de Westgaver)

Europe’s water challenges took centre stage, with the discussion focusing on one of the defining challenges of our time through three interconnected dimensions: too much, too little and too toxic water. Moderated by Žaklin Butinar, Eurisy Interim Secretary General, the panel “Water Under Pressure: Too Much, Too Little, Too Toxic” brought together experts representing each of these critical perspectives. Pierpaolo Campostrini, Managing Director of the Consortium for Managing Research Activities in the Venice Lagoon, addressed the challenges of too much water, presenting the case of Venice and the systems supporting its conservation, with satellite data helping to track changes in water levels and land subsidence across the lagoon. 

Jenő Lábdy, Head of the International Department at Hungary’s General Directorate of Water Management, explored the realities of too little water, focusing on the episodes of drought experienced along the Danube past summer and how satellite observations can provide a basin-wide picture of water availability, surface water extent and drought impacts. To conclude, James Doherty, Founder and CEO of Poseira, focused on their space solutions to monitor water toxicity in Lough Neagh in Northern Ireland, showing how satellite imagery can reveal changes in water quality from orbit, including the extent and evolution of algal blooms and other indicators of pollution. 

Carmen Aguilera Rios, Head of the Operational Market Development and Critical Applications Section at EUSPA, highlighted the role of space-based technologies and data in monitoring water-related challenges and supporting more informed and resilient responses. 

Key Takeaways 

• Close the gap: The real challenge is turning data into actionable information for water managers, mayors, responders and communities. 
• Connect Europe’s capabilities: Local needs, regional challenges and European space assets must work together to turn observation into action. 

The second panel of the track, “Protecting Cultural Heritage in Conflict: The View from Space”, focused on cultural heritage and brought together experts from space and cultural domains. 

Held in the spirit of the Memorandum of Cooperation and Partnership signed in early 2026 between the Ukrainian Minister of Culture Tetyana Berezhna and Spanish Minister of Culture Ernest Urtasun, the discussion brought both perspectives together, reaffirming a shared commitment to protecting cultural heritage and strengthening cooperation. The discussion opened with a keynote address by Mr Urtasun, who stressed the importance of preparedness and of adopting a more preventive and forward-looking approach to the challenges ahead. 

From left to right: Spanish Minister of Culture Ernest Urtasun, Eurisy President Eric Morel de Westgaver, Yuliia Sokolovska, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Kingdom of Spain.

“We must move from reacting to damage towards a more preventive approach. This is essential to protecting our cultural heritage from both climate change and conflict threats: different challenges, but the same need to anticipate risks, act earlier and cooperate. Earth observation can provide the tools to make this possible”. (Ernest Urtasun) 

Yuliia Sokolovska, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Kingdom of Spain, shared Ukraine’s perspective on the urgent need to protect cultural heritage threatened by the ongoing conflict, underscoring how satellite-based observations provide access to otherwise unreachable sites and enable informed action to document, protect, and preserve cultural heritage. 

“In Ukraine, cultural heritage is threatened not only by attacks and physical destruction, but also by illegal excavations and the removal and trafficking of cultural objects. Space allows us to see beyond distances and front lines, including places that are currently beyond our reach. Our task is to turn this information into concrete action: to document, protect, cooperate and, ultimately, preserve.” (Yuliia Sokolovska) 

The debate continued with Charlotte Fafet, User Engagement and Partnership Associate at ECMWF, highlighting how Copernicus climate and atmosphere data can help cultural heritage professionals shift from responding to damage to anticipating and mitigating climate-related risks. Emphasising the importance of closer collaboration with the heritage sector, she called for the co-design of services that meet practitioners’ needs and integrate seamlessly into existing heritage management workflows. 

From left to right: Anna Sidorenko, Jolanda Patruno, Charlotte Fafet.

Anna Sidorenko, Head of the Cultural Heritage Protection Treaties Unit at UNESCO, complemented this with a focus on international coordination and collective action, highlighting how shared frameworks and expertise can connect stakeholders and turn individual initiatives into a coordinated international response. Jolanda Patruno, Capability Support Engineer at ESA, moderated the discussion. 

A curated selection from “Behind the Lens: Culture Under Attack,” an exhibition developed by Ukraine’s Institute of Mass Information with the support of UNESCO, was displayed at the venue alongside the panel. It featured powerful work by Ukrainian journalists and photographers documenting the damage to churches, theatres, libraries, museums and other cultural sites caused by Russia’s aggression.

These photographs showed what satellites alone cannot: the human cost of destruction. They made tangible for attendees what is lost when culture comes under attack, and why protecting it matters. 

Shared Goals and Future Ambitions 

• Move beyond monitoring: Develop capabilities not only to monitor cultural heritage, but also to alert, prevent, and support recovery when threats occur. 

• Co-design tools with users: Invest in the development of practical tools together with end users and the cultural heritage community, ensuring that solutions respond to real needs and can be effectively integrated into existing practices. 

• Broaden the scope of cultural heritage: Expand the use of space-based technologies beyond physical sites and monuments to better address intangible cultural heritage. 

The discussions brought together perspectives from across the space, climate, cultural heritage and policy communities, highlighting the importance of dialogue between space and non-space actors in addressing societal challenges. Through the Society Track, Eurisy contributed to a broader conversation about how space can respond to societal needs and how society, in turn, can help shape the future of the European space sector.  

The event concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Eurisy and the European Space Policy Institute (ESPI), outlining a shared framework for future activities and collaboration. More details here.

As Europe’s space ambitions grow, Eurisy will keep working to make space matter for the communities it serves. 

Eurisy President Eric Morel de Westgaver & Ludwig Moeller ESPI Director

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Satellite applications play an important role across the region: from enhancing climate and environmental monitoring and digital connectivity, to supporting maritime operations and disaster risk management. For Bonaire and other European overseas territories, these technologies help address challenges related to remoteness, limited infrastructure, and exposure to natural hazards, while strengthening resilience and supporting sustainable development. 

The expansion of European space infrastructure in the region, including the newly opened Galileo Sensor Station in Bonaire, highlights the Caribbean’s strategic importance for the performance and global reach of European satellite systems, while reinforcing broader cooperation between Europe and the region. 

These issues were at the centre of the EU Satellite Conference in Bonaire, which brought together European and Caribbean public authorities, space-sector organisations, research institutions and other stakeholders to discuss how satellite technologies can respond to regional priorities. The conference covered a range of topics, including climate adaptation, connectivity, search and rescue, environmental monitoring and disaster preparedness. The “Satellite-Based Services for Disaster Risk Management” workshop, held on 23 April 2026, was part of this wider programme and focused specifically on the role of space-based services across the disaster risk management cycle. 

Organised by EUSPA and Eurisy, with the support of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management of the Netherlands and the Netherlands Space Agency (NLSA), the workshop was the 14th in the series of national workshops organised by Eurisy and EUSPA with local partners since 2022. It brought together public authorities, emergency management and meteorological services, research organisations and space-sector experts to discuss how satellite-based services can support disaster risk management. 

For Caribbean islands, where geographical isolation, limited ground observations and resource constraints can make access to reliable information more difficult, satellite data can provide an additional source of information for monitoring hazards and supporting decisions. Discussions during the workshop covered applications including flood and rainfall monitoring, environmental and marine monitoring, emergency communications and public warning. 

 From satellites to action 

 A key focus of the workshop was how European space services can be translated into practical tools for decision-makers. Participants discussed the role of Copernicus, Galileo and GOVSATCOM in supporting preparedness, response and recovery, as well as the challenges and opportunities involved in integrating these services into local workflows. 

Two hands-on demonstrations brought these capabilities to life. A Galileo Search and Rescue demonstration showed how satellite-enabled distress detection can support emergency response and maritime rescue operations. The demonstration highlighted how a distress signal can be detected and relayed to the relevant authorities, helping turn satellite infrastructure into a concrete tool for saving lives. 

Participants also experienced a live demonstration of the Galileo Emergency Warning Satellite Service (EWSS). The upcoming service is designed to deliver emergency alerts directly to compatible mobile devices via Galileo satellites, including when terrestrial communication networks are unavailable. The demonstration illustrated how satellite connectivity can help extend the reach of critical warnings to people in affected areas. 

Building resilience through cooperation 

The workshop underlined that the value of space-based services lies not only in the data itself, but in how effectively it can be integrated into decision-making. Access to data alone is not enough: information needs to be accessible, relevant and integrated into existing decision-making and emergency procedures. By bringing European and Caribbean stakeholders together, the event created space to share practical experiences, identify user needs and explore how satellite-enabled services can contribute to more resilient islands. 

As co-organiser, Eurisy supported the workshop throughout its preparation and follow-up, working with EUSPA and local partners on the programme, speakers, promotion and sessions. 

Dominique Tilmans, Eurisy President, contributed with an opening keynote to the event, and Zaklin Butinar, Eurisy Interim Secretary General, was also present at the event engaging with the participants and organisers for the closing session.  Eurisy also collected participant feedback and success stories, documented the discussions through the workshop report and produced a video of the event. This work forms part of Eurisy’s wider role in connecting space programmes with users and documenting how satellite-based services are applied in practice. 

The Bonaire workshop demonstrated the growing potential of space technology to support communities on the front line of climate and disaster risks – from understanding hazards to communicating warnings and supporting emergency response. 

Dominique Tilmans, Eurisy President, giving her opening remarks

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Bringing together policymakers, international organisations, space agencies, researchers and industry representatives, the event examined common challenges and opportunities at the intersection of the space and ocean sectors through six roundtables organised around three overarching themes: the climate crisis and its impact on the ocean, law enforcement and ocean governance, and technological opportunities.

In her opening remarks, Isabelle Rosabrunetto, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of the Principality of Monaco, highlighted Monaco’s longstanding commitment to both ocean protection and space innovation, building on the vision initiated by Prince Rainier III. She stressed that international cooperation and technological innovation must go hand in hand to address today’s maritime challenges.

Olivier Piepsz, Chairman of Prométhée Earth Intelligence, then set the tone for the discussions by underlining that the ocean has become not only an environmental concern, but also a geopolitical and economic one. As maritime activities continue to expand, he argued that effective observation has become indispensable: “We cannot protect what we cannot observe.” Satellites have become the “eyes of the planet”, supporting applications ranging from maritime surveillance and pollution detection to sea-level monitoring, critical infrastructure protection and disaster response. Yet technology alone is not enough. A recurring message throughout the Forum was that financing and coordination remain the key obstacles to scaling successful pilot projects into long-term operational services.

Reflecting this multidisciplinary approach, the Forum brought together representatives from international organisations including the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC), the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and ACCOBAMS, alongside space agencies such as ESA, CNES, the Italian Space Agency, the Maldives Space Research Organisation and the Senegal Space Study Agency. They were joined by research institutions, private companies and organisations such as Eurisy and POGO- Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean, creating a unique platform for dialogue between the space and ocean communities.

Keynote: The Climate Crisis and the Ocean

Opening the Forum’s first thematic session, Eurisy’s Interim Secretary General, Zaklin Butinar, highlighted the profound impact of climate change on the world’s oceans and the growing role of space technologies in supporting adaptation and resilience.

She reminded the audience that the oceans have absorbed more than 90% of the excess heat generated by climate change since the 1970s. While this has limited atmospheric warming, it has come at a significant cost: marine heatwaves, ocean acidification, harmful algal blooms, shifting fish stocks, sea-level rise, coastal erosion and increasingly frequent extreme weather events are placing unprecedented pressure on marine ecosystems, coastal communities and maritime activities.

Against this backdrop, she argued that satellite-based services already provide practical tools to monitor these evolving challenges, from environmental observation and oil spill detection to iceberg tracking and maritime safety. However, technological innovation alone is not sufficient. Successful adoption depends on understanding the operational needs of public authorities and end users, involving them throughout the service development process and strengthening collaboration between the space and maritime communities.

Presenting Eurisy’s role as a facilitator between these sectors, she illustrated how the organisation supports the uptake of satellite-based services through user engagement, international workshops and the promotion of operational success stories. Concluding her keynote, she emphasised three key messages: space technologies are already contributing to climate resilience; end users must remain at the centre of innovation; and stronger dialogue between the space and ocean communities is essential to transform existing solutions into lasting societal impact.

A Roundtable moderated by Eurisy

Roundtable E: Common Challenges, Solutions and Success Stories in Space and Ocean Technology

Later that day, the roundtable on Common Challenges, Solutions and Success Stories Involving Space and Oceanic Technological Development explored how space technologies are becoming key enablers for maritime security, environmental monitoring and sustainable ocean management. Bringing together perspectives from space agencies, ocean observation networks, hydrography and small island states, the roundtable featured contributions from Maram Kaire, Director General of the Senegal Space Study Agency (ASES); Mathias Jonas, Secretary General of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO); Lilian Anne Krug, Scientific Coordinator at the Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO) and the University of Algarve; and Emil Luth, Space & Ocean Capital Lead at Maldives Space Research Organisation (MSRO).

Maram Kaire, Director General of the Senegal Space Study Agency (ASES), presented one of the session’s most compelling success stories. As a new oil and gas producer, Senegal faces growing challenges related to illegal fishing, maritime trafficking and the protection of offshore infrastructure. To strengthen maritime surveillance, the country is working with Prométhée, Unseenlabs and the national armed forces to detect suspicious vessels, including those operating without active tracking systems. Environmental monitoring is another priority, particularly the detection of harmful algal blooms through a new platform developed with Grogenics. At the same time, the country is rapidly building its first satellite constellation.

Beyond technology, Maram Kaire stressed that communication is the greatest challenge for emerging space nations. Convincing governments to invest requires demonstrating concrete benefits for citizens. “Space is not a luxury,” he explained, emphasising that applications in agriculture, healthcare, education and maritime security are far more persuasive than scientific reports alone.

Lilian Anne Krug, scientific coordinator at the Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO), highlighted the organisation’s work in capacity building across its members. While Earth observation has revolutionised ocean monitoring (illustrated by the Argo programme) satellite data cannot replace in situ observations, which remain essential for calibration. Long-term funding, however, continues to be a major obstacle, as political cycles rarely align with the needs of sustained scientific observation. She also underlined the value of local partnerships, citing examples where scientists and fishermen worked together to strengthen coastal monitoring.

From the hydrographic perspective, Mathias Jonas, Secretary General of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), emphasised the critical role of international standards. Although often overlooked, standardisation ensures that ocean data collected worldwide are compatible and operationally useful. He also argued that successful observing systems must respond to users’ needs, summarising the approach with: “Standardise globally, apply locally.” Regional cooperation, he added, is often the most effective way to implement global standards.

Representing the Maldives Space Research Organisation (MSRO), Emil Luth highlighted the specific challenges faced by small island states, where limited resources require careful prioritisation of monitoring efforts, from ocean currents and seagrass to fisheries and biodiversity. Collaboration, investment and sustainable financing are essential to support long-term environmental observation.

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the importance of explaining the value of space technologies. Zaklin Butinar, noted that governments often struggle to justify investments without clear cost-benefit analyses. Maram Kaire responded that understanding must come before funding: once decision-makers recognise the practical value of the space sector, financial support naturally follows.

Following questions and comments from the audience, the discussion concluded that successful space-ocean initiatives depend not only on technological innovation, but also on international cooperation, capacity building, long-term investment and effective communication. As broadband connectivity at sea expands, new opportunities for real-time ocean monitoring are emerging, reinforcing the growing role of space technologies in supporting sustainable and secure maritime activities.

During the many coffee breaks throughout the day, participants had the opportunity to exchange with a wide range of stakeholders from both the space and ocean sectors. Bringing together such diverse profiles created opportunities for discussions and connections that would not have happened otherwise.

The event concluded with a networking cocktail at the Société Nautique / Yacht Club de Monaco, allowing all participants to continue their discussions over a convivial buffet and to close the day in a privileged setting, on the port of the Principality.

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This ambition was on full display at the “Unlocking Space” conference in Belfast, organised by the Northern Ireland Space Office, Eurisy, and Matrix: The Northern Ireland Science Industry Panel. 

Bringing together leaders from government, industry, academia, and investment, the event focused on unlocking the potential of space technologies to drive economic growth, innovation, and public sector transformation.

Northern Ireland’s Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly.

A highlight of the conference was a keynote address by Northern Ireland’s Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly, who emphasised the growing strategic importance of space. 

“Space is no longer operating at the margins of government policy; it is becoming central to it.” 

She highlighted the vital role satellites already play in communications, agriculture, environmental monitoring, disaster response, and critical infrastructure, while stressing that regions investing in talent, innovation, and collaboration today will help shape the economy of tomorrow. 

A recurring theme throughout the event was the importance of collaboration. Speakers agreed that no country or region can unlock the full potential of space alone. Success will depend on partnerships that connect governments, businesses, researchers, and innovators across borders. 

From left to right: Dominique Tilmans, Eurisy President, Robert Hill, Director NI Space Office, Northern Ireland’s Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly.

As Eurisy President Dominique Tilmans noted: “By bringing the Eurisy community to Belfast, we hope to create new conversations and new opportunities for cooperation.” 

That vision was reflected throughout the day, with discussions and panels bringing together local, national, and international perspectives to share expertise and build new partnerships. 

Looking ahead, Northern Ireland’s space strategy is centred on four priorities: advanced manufacturing, public-sector transformation, cyber resilience, and stronger European collaboration. 

Space technologies, particularly satellite data, are increasingly recognised as valuable tools for improving public services, supporting evidence-based decision-making, and addressing challenges such as environmental monitoring, infrastructure management, and resilience planning. 

Importantly, the sector is no longer viewed as a standalone industry. Instead, space capabilities are becoming embedded across a wide range of sectors, from engineering and infrastructure to digital technologies and data services, helping to drive broader economic transformation. 

One of the conference’s most significant discussions focused on the role of government as both a customer and catalyst for innovation. 

Lydia Green, Head of the “Unlocking Space” Portfolio of the UK Space Agency, described the public sector as one of the industry’s most important markets, helping to de-risk innovation and create confidence for private investments. She also highlighted Northern Ireland’s highly connected ecosystem as an ideal environment for testing and scaling new solutions. 

However, speakers acknowledged that unlocking the full value of space technologies requires easier routes into government and more agile procurement processes. Efforts are already underway, including the publication by the UK Government of Areas of Research Interest (ARIs), designed to help businesses and researchers better align with public-sector challenges. 

The practical benefits of adopting space technologies in Northern Ireland are already becoming evident. Claire Young from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs of Northern Ireland, highlighted the use of satellite data to monitor cyanobacteria in Lough Neagh, the largest lake on the island of Ireland and in the British Isles, providing insights at a scale and frequency that traditional methods cannot match. 

Claire Young, DAERA Marine & Fisheries Division, and Rico Santiago, Ordnance Survey of NI (OSNI)

Still, access remains a critical issue, as Professor Helen McCarthy, Northern Ireland’s first Chief Scientific and Technology Adviser, stressed:  

“You’re not going to unlock the value of these technologies unless we unlock the routes into government.” 

The business panel reinforced another key message: successful innovation begins with clearly defined challenges rather than technology itself. 

Josep Colomé, Director of the Area for the Promotion of the Space Sector of Catalonia, outlined Catalonia’s approach: 

“We start by understanding the problem, without thinking about the technology first—then we assess how space solutions can help.” 

This needs-driven approach has enabled space technologies to be successfully integrated into public services in Catalonia through targeted pilots, innovation challenges, and clear pathways from experimentation to procurement, a great example for Northern Ireland.  

At the same time, panellists highlighted persistent barriers, particularly around procurement. Gary Connolly from Craxel UK offered a clear assessment: 

“The procurement process is still fundamentally long and broken, it can stifle innovation.” 

From left to right: Ken Gordon, European Space Agency, Robert Cross, UK Space Agency, Dr Craig Brown, UK Space Agency.

The discussion concluded that the future success of the space sector will depend not only on technological breakthroughs, but on how effectively those technologies are adopted, integrated, and scaled in real-world environments. 

The investment panel concluded the journey, exploring how businesses can navigate the funding path from concept to scale. 

Speakers highlighted the importance of understanding the funding ladder: public funding and grants help reduce early-stage technical and commercial risk, angel investors support businesses in their formative stages, and venture capital typically becomes relevant once a company has demonstrated market potential and is ready to grow. 

A consistent message emerged: investors back teams as much as technology. While strong ideas matter, long-term success depends on a team’s ability to adapt, solve problems, and execute effectively. 

Market validation is equally important. Companies must clearly articulate the problem they are solving, identify their customers, and demonstrate why space technology is essential to their solution. 

Collaboration was also identified as a critical success factor. Most space companies operate within broader value chains, making partnerships essential for accessing markets and delivering complete solutions. 

The conference concluded with an interactive discussion on what a holistic future solution should look like to better support public-sector decision-making in Northern Ireland. 

While the conversation began with technology, it quickly shifted to the broader conditions needed for success. Participants agreed that future solutions must be user-centred, easy to adopt, and designed around real-world needs. Rather than creating entirely new systems, there was strong support for making better use of existing capabilities, improving visibility across the ecosystem, and strengthening collaboration between organisations. 

The consensus was clear: the biggest barriers are not technical, but organisational and cultural. Building trust, improving governance, and fostering collaboration will be just as important as developing new technologies. 

Backed by strong leadership, growing investment, and a collaborative ecosystem, Northern Ireland is well positioned to realise its space ambitions.

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Kindly hosted at the Invest Northern Ireland headquarters, the General Assembly opened on a note of strong partnership and shared ambition. Robert Hill, Director of the Northern Ireland Space Office, set the scene by highlighting the deep and enduring collaboration between Northern Ireland and Eurisy, one that continues to play a vital role in shaping and accelerating the region’s fast-growing space ecosystem. 

Eurisy Interim Secretary General, took the stage. Presenting the Annual Activity Report alongside the team, she captured the spirit that has driven Eurisy forward over the past year:

“I am incredibly proud of everything the Eurisy team has achieved over the past year. Together, we have not only delivered an ambitious programme of activities and strengthened our presence across Europe and beyond, but we have also set a new direction for the association, one that is dynamic and outward-looking.”

And indeed, this evolution was visible across many of Eurisy’s activities. Over the past year, the association has expanded its reach beyond the traditional boundaries of the space sector, stepping into new arenas and conversations. By participating in key non-space events, from the Smart City Expo World Congress in Barcelona to major gatherings in Paris such as the International Agricultural Salon and the ChangeNOW Summit, the team connected with communities that do not usually engage with space stakeholders. 

This shift has not only broadened Eurisy’s visibility but also deepened its understanding of how space-based solutions can address real, day-to-day challenges across sectors. Listening directly to new audiences, exchanging ideas, and identifying emerging needs has added a new layer of relevance and impact to the association’s work. 

From impactful initiatives to a busy calendar of events and collaborations, the past year has been both dynamic and transformative. More importantly, it has signalled a clear direction for the future, one that positions Eurisy as a true bridge between the space community and society at large. 

You can access the Report here

The Assembly was also a deeply meaningful moment of gratitude and recognition. After ten years of dedicated and inspiring leadership, the Eurisy community came together to thank Dominique Tilmans as she concluded her mandate as President. Her contribution has been far-reaching, not only through her expertise and strategic vision but also through her unique ability to bring people together, spark ideas, and foster a shared sense of purpose. Her passion and commitment have played a defining role in shaping Eurisy into the vibrant and impactful association it is today, leaving behind a strong and lasting legacy that will continue to guide its future. 

As one chapter draws to a close, another begins with renewed energy and ambition. 

The General Assembly marked the official welcome of Eric Morel de Westgaver as Eurisy’s Incoming President, alongside Dr. Christina Giannopapa as the Incoming Secretary General.  

Guided by the newly introduced Eurisy 2040 Strategy, this transition sets a bold and forward-looking course for the association. Together with its members and broader community, Eurisy is turning to the next phase, building on solid foundations while continuing to collaborate and explore new opportunities.

The Eurisy General Assembly was also enriched by two inspiring keynote presentations from our members, which brought a broader international perspective.

Christian Feichtinger, Executive Director of the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), took the stage to reflect on the success of last year’s International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Sydney. He also offered a compelling preview of the upcoming edition, which will take place in Antalya from 5–9 October, highlighting a rich programme that will once again bring the global space community together.  

The Assembly also featured a special moment led by the Institute of Space Studies of Catalonia, which presented its bid to host the IAC in 2029. Josep Colomé, Director of the Area for the Promotion of the Space Sector of Catalonia, introduced the proposal’s vision to the Eurisy community, focusing on the globally relevant theme of water resilience from space.

The bid positioned Barcelona as a natural host city, an established international technology hub backed by strong institutional support from the Spanish government, aligned with the vision set in the Catalonia Space Strategy 2030, and strongly supported by the City of Barcelona itself.  Together, these elements showcase a vibrant and forward-thinking ecosystem, capable of delivering a truly impactful and globally connected Congress. 

The day also featured a special visit to the Titanic Museum, joined by local government stakeholders. Participants stepped into Belfast’s rich maritime heritage, exploring the story of the Titanic and the legacy that continues to shape the city today.

The experience became truly interactive with an engaging quiz organised by the Eurisy team, which allowed participants to broaden their understanding of how space technologies support maritime security, sustainability, and safe navigation.

We also had the pleasure of hosting the Eurisy Gala Dinner at the Titanic Hotel, the former headquarters of Harland & Wolff, the legendary shipbuilders responsible for the Titanic. Stepping into the very spaces where the Titanic was designed, built, and launched offered a truly unique and memorable experience. 

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As one of the final major milestones of the GEO-Academy project, the conference provided an opportunity to reflect on three years of collaboration dedicated to strengthening geospatial education, Earth Observation (EO), GIS and sustainability learning in schools. Participants from Austria, Portugal, Cyprus, Greece, Sweden, Bulgaria and France joined the event alongside representatives from ESA, COSPAR, Esri UK and GEO-Academy partner organisations. 

The conference opened with keynote sessions featuring several high-level speakers from the European space and education ecosystem. Kai-Uwe Schrogl, ESA Special Adviser for Political Affairs and former President of the International Institute of Space Law, highlighted the growing importance of spatial literacy and geospatial education within Europe’s future education and space strategies. Jean-Claude Worms, Executive Director of COSPAR, emphasized the importance of international scientific cooperation and the need to translate Earth Observation knowledge into societal value through education and outreach. 

Throughout the conference, GEO-Academy partners showcased the project’s main achievements, including the development of the GEOBSERVE platform, GEO-Hubs, teacher training modules and practical educational resources designed to support the integration of geospatial technologies into classrooms. 

The second day of the conference focused strongly on panel discussions dedicated to the future of GEO-education and the transformation of classroom practices. 

The first panel, “Building Tomorrow’s Educators: Emerging Competence Needs in GEO-Education”, moderated by Dr. Loukas Katikas, brought together Claire Evans from Bloxham School, Katie Hall from Esri UK, Clara Cruz Niggebrugge from ESA and Olympia Befa from Ellinogermaniki Agogi. 

The discussion explored the future competencies required for teachers and students in an increasingly data-driven and sustainability-focused world. Panelists highlighted the importance of spatial thinking, GIS literacy, inquiry-based learning and the integration of authentic Earth Observation data into classrooms. Katie Hall and Claire Evans notably stressed that the challenge today is not the lack of geospatial tools, but rather curriculum integration, teacher confidence and institutional support. Clara Cruz Niggebrugge also emphasized ESA’s long-term vision for Earth Observation education and the importance of preparing future generations for careers and societal challenges linked to climate and sustainability. 

The second panel, “Transforming Teaching Practices: From GEO-Academy Training to Classroom Impact”, moderated by Shana Sonntag from Eurisy, focused on the concrete implementation of GEO-Academy methodologies in schools. 

Alexandros Pantazis from Ellinogermaniki Agogi, Paula Lomascolo from the Institute for Space Studies, Afroditi Riga from SPOTIN and Evgenia Agapi Vavouraki discussed how teacher training can move beyond isolated workshops to become long-term educational transformation. The discussion highlighted the importance of continuous mentoring, modular educational resources, school leadership support and collaborative ecosystems enabling teachers to adapt geospatial approaches to their own classrooms. 

One of the highlights of the event was the GEO-Academy GeoVoices Map Storytelling Competition, which demonstrated how students can combine digital storytelling, mapping technologies and sustainability topics to better understand their local environment. 

The winning project, “Sustainable Community Living in our School and Beyond”, was presented by students from Agios Spyridonas Lyceum in Limassol, Cyprus. Their work explored how local school initiatives can contribute to broader sustainability goals through geospatial storytelling and community engagement. 

Additional projects showcased during the conference included: 

• “The Rivers of Our Areas” by Eleni Korakaki; 

• “Changing the End: A Map Storytelling Project” by the 3rd Junior High School of Argyroupoli; 

• a Map Storytelling Project developed by Evgenia Tsioupli and Lemonia Laskari from the 1st Model High School “Manolis Andronikos”; 

• and the Award Ceremony Project by Victoria Marques from Agrupamento Terras do Ave European School in Portugal. 

More information about the GeoVoices competition and the participating projects is available on the GEO-Academy website: 

• https://geoacademy.eu/mapstorytelling-competition/ 

• https://geoacademy.eu/geoacademy-map-storytelling-competition/ 

• https://geoacademy.eu/announcing-the-winners-of-the-geoacademy-map-storytelling-competition/ 

A major focus of the conference was also placed on teachers’ presentations and classroom implementation. Teachers from across Europe presented concrete educational activities developed through GEO-Academy training and demonstrated how geospatial technologies are already being integrated into schools. 

Philippe Longchamps from Sweden presented a field study in which students mapped noise pollution around their school using ArcGIS Online and geolocated field data before proposing mitigation strategies linked to urban sustainability. Ana Rola from Portugal showcased projects on urban heat island mitigation and Nature-Based Solutions using StoryMaps and Copernicus data adapted to local contexts. 

In Austria, Julia Haidacher introduced a teaching sequence on bark beetle infestations and forest health using interactive climate and mapping tools, while Thomas Flatscher presented an innovative “Geodesign” project combining laser scanning, 3D modelling and digital landscape representation. 

Teachers from Cyprus also shared interdisciplinary STEM projects combining geospatial tools, drone simulations, coding and wildfire prevention scenarios. Charalambos Charalambous demonstrated how students used Google Earth, Scratch programming and mathematical modelling to explore forest fire prevention and environmental awareness. 

Additional presentations highlighted robotics workshops, outdoor environmental education and inquiry-based sustainability projects. Hélio Domingues from Portugal shared student-centred activities focused on wildfire prevention and environmental stewardship, while Eva Axheden from Sweden demonstrated how outdoor learning activities using the GEOBSERVE platform support experiential environmental education. 

Olympia Befa and Evgenia Agapi Vavouraki from Greece also presented projects linking sustainability education, biodiversity exploration and spatial thinking through inquiry-based learning activities implemented in both primary and secondary education. 

Rather than discussing GEO-education in abstract terms, these presentations showcased concrete classroom applications already tested in schools and demonstrated how students engage directly with real environmental and societal challenges using Earth Observation data and geospatial technologies. 

Beyond the conference sessions themselves, the event generated strong visibility online and across professional networks. Participants, keynote speakers and teachers actively shared conference highlights on LinkedIn, contributing to increased engagement around GEO-Academy and geospatial education. During the conference, GEO-Academy gained more than 50 new LinkedIn subscribers, while conference-related posts reached hundreds of users and were reposted by speakers and participants across Europe. 

Pictures and highlights from teachers’ presentations, student projects and panel discussions further contributed to showcasing the diversity and concrete impact of GEO-Academy activities in classrooms and educational communities. 

As one participant noted: 

“The GEO-Academy event held in May 2026 in Paris, at the headquarters of the European Space Agency, was exceptionally well organized by EURISY. Their professionalism and attention to detail played a key role in making the event an outstanding success, bringing together participants from across Europe to explore a wide range of engaging and thought-provoking topics. GEO-Academy embodies the future of geographical education: collaborative, innovative, and deeply rooted in the real challenges facing our planet. It is an essential initiative, connecting experts, educators, and learners around a shared goal to better understand our world in order to protect it more effectively.” 

The GEO-Academy International Teachers Conference ultimately confirmed the emergence of a growing European ecosystem connecting education, sustainability and space-enabled technologies, while empowering teachers and students to use geospatial tools to better understand and address today’s environmental challenges. 

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The discussions highlighted that the challenge is not the lack of data, but rather making it usable, relevant, and integrated into real decision-making processes.

The conference also offered excellent networking opportunities. Eurisy engaged directly with key stakeholders, including representatives from the RST‑TTO Risk Transfer Office in Bulgaria, a Eurisy Member, as well as representatives from EARSC and experts working hands‑on with DRM applications. These in‑person exchanges fostered valuable discussions and paved the way for potential collaborations with highly relevant actors developing innovative, operational tools. 

About the VALORADA project
The VALORADA project (2023–2026) brings together 14 European partners under Horizon Europe to strengthen climate adaptation and resilience at regional and local levels. It supports the EU Mission for Adaptation to Climate Change, which aims to help at least 150 European regions and communities become climate-resilient by 2030. Demonstrators include Gabrovo and Burgas (Bulgaria), Přerov and Mladá Boleslav (Czech Republic), Occitanie (France), Central Greece, and Molise (Italy).

VALORADA assesses the data baseline for adaptation by identifying priority climate risks, evaluating the accessibility and usability of European climate and non-climate data, and co-developing a framework linking socioeconomic, demographic, Earth Observation (EO), and climate datasets. The project also develops and showcases prototype data-manipulation tools, co-creates guidelines for building “resilience-information catalogues,” generates climate-risk indicators, and enables the customisable integration of diverse datasets into decision-making processes. To maximise impact, VALORADA ensures its tools follow FAIR principles, are interoperable with existing repositories, and support capacity building across demonstrators.

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Eurisy participated on April 8 in the ESA Future Skills Executive Roundtable, held at European Space Agency Headquarters in Paris.

This closed-door, high-level discussion convened a select group of key stakeholders from across the space ecosystem, from industry leaders, academic experts, to institutional representatives, for an open and thoughtful exchange on the evolving skills landscape.

The session addressed ESA’s talent priorities and the competencies likely to be important for the future space workforce, with participants openly sharing insights on emerging skills and workforce trends in a closed, interactive setting.

A key component of the roundtable was the presentation of the White Paper on the ESA Skills Digital Twin Initiative, which offered a forward-looking analysis of workforce trends. Discussions allowed participants to share perspectives on workforce needs, talent circulation, and retention dynamics, without disclosing sensitive operational details. 

The final session aimed to translate dialogue into action, exploring general opportunities for collaboration across workforce analysis, skills development, and innovation support. The exchanges focused on identifying actionable, high-level approaches to strengthen Europe’s space talent ecosystem. 

Bringing together experts from organisations such as OECD and UNESCO, as well as leading space companies and universities, the roundtable fostered confidential and constructive dialogue under Chatham House rules. Eurisy looks forward to continuing its work in supporting the people and skills that will shape the future of the space sector.

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