MICROSATELLITES AND THEIR USE IN PLANETARY AND ASTROBIOLOGY RESEARCH WORKSHOP, Aug 24-31, 2024, Tartu, Estonia

A workshop on “Microsatellites and Their Use in Planetary and Astrobiology Research” will take place August 24-31, 2024 in Tartu, Estonia.

More information is on the Tartu University (Tartu Ülikool) website, which says:

The aim of the workshop Microsatellites and their use in planetary and astrobiology research (Tartu, Estonia, 24-31 August 2024) will enable students and early career scientists to design micro- and nanosatellite missions, tackling scientific themes and target objects they have chosen themselves. The workshop will consist of three parts:

• a lectured part consisting of in-depth talks on the scientific background of the chosen mission themes and on important issues in satellite technology;
• a mission design part where attendees plan their endeavours in detail with the help of satellite technologists;
• a final presentation of all the projects.

To effectively strategize for successful missions involving small satellites, there needs to be extensive collaboration and interaction between scientists and space technologists. However, this essential cooperation is can be improved in certain critical areas .The workshop school aims to:

• highlight the possible potential of microsatellites in exploring different targets like the Moon, small bodies and outer satellites;
• foster the interaction between space researchers and technologists;
• allow participants to start the design and planning of new space missions;
• contribute to the training of a new generation of space researchers.

The work on the mission designs will continue after the workshop, thus ensuring a long-term impact.

The European Astrobiology Institute, Univeristy of Tartu and Stockholm University Astrobiology Centre  will function as co-organisers of the workshop.

The workshop will consist of lectures by leading scientists, planning of different micro- or nanosatellite projects in small groups as well as open discusssions. Participants will also have the possibility to display their own research results at a poster session. Furthermore, a one-day excursion to South-Estonia and a walk around Tartu is included as a social programme.

The event is open to applicants from all nationalities. Nevertheless, recommendation letters for visa applications are only issued for participants selected by the organizers.