Eurisy General Assembly 2026 in Belfast
This year, the Eurisy community gathered in Belfast for the 2026 General Assembly, an event that marked both a milestone and a turning point for the association. Between reflection and renewal, the Assembly brought members together to celebrate achievements, honour contributions, and collectively shape the vision for the years ahead.
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.
