This year, Trondheim will host researchers from across the globe within atmospheric and space science.
The occasion is the 27th ESA Symposium on European Rocket & Balloon Programmes and Related Research, for which Norway and Andøya Space are the hosts.
The conference was initiated in 1973 by the EASP member countries to provide a platform for researchers and engineers who use sounding rockets and balloons in their scientific work. It is held every second year, with the member states rotating the role of host and organizer.
The EASP agreement
The EASP agreement is an abbreviation for the Esrange Andøya Special Project agreement, an international agreement enabling the launch of rockets and balloons from the ranges in Sweden (Esrange) and Norway (Andøya Space). The agreement is between the five countries Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, and Switzerland.
Norway and Andøya Space hosting in 2026
This year, Norway and Andøya Space will host the symposium, which will take place over four days in Trondheim, from May 31st to June 4th.
Charlotte Bjørkmo, project manager for the symposium at Andøya Space, will welcome researchers from around the world working within atmospheric and space research.
She has worked diligently together with a committee from Andøya Space to put together this year’s event. In addition, a program committee consisting of representatives from various research institutions and universities has determined the conference topics.
“The program consists of parallel sessions with presentations. In addition, there will be a number of social side events such as an Ice Breaker, a concert in Nidaros Cathedral, an event we call Ranges Night, and opportunities for attendees to explore Trondheim,” says Kolbjørn Blix, Vice President Sub-Orbital at Andøya Space.
There will also be exhibitors with booths present during the conference, ranging from companies within the space industry to providers of data systems and technology.
The last time Andøya Space organized this conference in 2015 it was held in Tromsø. This time, Trondheim was chosen, as the city offers a strong research, technology, and student environment, close proximity to key institutions such as NTNU and SINTEF, as well as excellent facilities for an international conference of this scale. The city also provides a unique combination of history, culture, and modern infrastructure, creating a strong foundation for both academic and social activities.
Registration is open
Registration for the conference is now open for those who wish to participate.
“We offer an early bird price for those who register early, valid until March 1,” says Kolbjørn. “After that, registration will remain open until May 17th.”
The conference has its own website where participants can register and find more information about the program
Questions?
Do you have any questions about the symposium?
Reach out to project manager Charlotte Bjørkmo