The Technical University of Munich (TUM) has been selected by the European Space Agency (ESA) to host the 5th Symposium on Space Educational Activities (SSEA), the leading European event dedicated to advancing space education, talent development, and cross-sector collaboration in the space domain.
The symposium will take place from Wednesday 8th to Friday 10th of April 2026 at TUM’s new Department of Aerospace and Geodesy Campus in Ottobrunn/Taufkirchen, bringing together over 300 participants from across Europe and beyond. The event will feature students, educators, researchers, industry professionals, and representatives from national and international space agencies.
“We are proud to welcome the European space education community to Munich,” says Prof. Dr.-Ing. Gisela Detrell, Chair of Human Spaceflight Technology and lead organizer of the event. “Hosting the SSEA is a recognition of TUM’s growing role in the space sector — and a unique opportunity to strengthen collaboration between academia, industry, and institutions.”
The SSEA is organized by ESA in cooperation with a selected host university, and has previously taken place in Padova, Budapest, Leicester and Barcelona. It offers a unique platform for young scientists and students to present their research, share innovative projects, and build professional networks within the space ecosystem. TUM’s successful bid was built around a strong student-centered approach, cutting-edge research facilities, and the university’s deep integration into Bavaria’s dynamic aerospace environment.
The 2026 edition will include research presentations and posters, keynote speeches, panel discussions, stands by companies and institutions, technical visits and social events. A strong focus will also be placed on diversity, sustainability, and accessibility, ensuring that space education is inclusive and considers the challenges faced by humankind..
The symposium will be held in close collaboration with ESA’s Education Office, and supported by local partners from academia, industry, and government.