Humans have always been fascinated by space: we gaze at the sky and try to understand it. Over time, technological advances have provided new observations. These, in turn, help refine existing scientific theories while also raising new questions. The detection of planetary systems around stars other than the Sun has reignited the debate about the existence of extraterrestrial life. Our knowledge of the universe has evolved thanks to space-based data and measurements that make it possible to test new models. Nevertheless, it remains highly fragmentary.
In 1957, the first satellite, Sputnik 1, was launched, ushering in the era of space exploration. This continued with crewed missions exploring the Solar System, as well as the deployment of uncrewed satellites (more than 10,000 are currently orbiting the Earth permanently, 65% of which belong to a single American private company). In 2021, the James Webb Space Telescope was launched. Located 1.5 million kilometers from Earth, it represents another major innovation in space exploration.
Space exploration plays a crucial role in both fundamental and applied research. For example, our understanding of the Earth and its many climate challenges depends on it. Likewise, it enhances our knowledge of the resilience of living organisms (human and non-human) exposed to microgravity and increased cosmic radiation. Research on this topic is currently underway at UNamur.
However, space exploration is also a major geopolitical and economic competition, as it leads to control over geolocation and terrestrial communication systems that enable state surveillance and espionage.
These are the many perspectives on space that will be addressed in a resolutely interdisciplinary conference.
Programme
- “The Great Mysteries of the Universe: Challenges for Our Century” by André Füzfa (University of Namur – Belgium).
- “Traveling in Space” by Yaël Nazé (University of Liège – Belgium).
- “Physiological Adaptations of Humans in Space” by Marc-Antoine Custaud (University of Angers – France).
- “Terrae Novae – European Space Exploration Programme” by Frank De Winne (ESA).
- “The New Geopolitics of Space Activities” by Xavier Pasco (Fondation pour la Recherche Stratégique – France).
- “Space and Society – What Challenges for Sustainable Development?” by Annick Castiaux (University of Namur – Belgium).
- Experiments on the Resilience of Living Organisms in Space by Boris Hespeels (University of Namur – Belgium).
Information
- Wednesday March 18. 2026 from 8:30 to 17:30
- At University of Namur.
- International conference in French.
- More information and registration: on REHNam website.
This conference is organised by REHNam, the network of retired and Emeritus academic and scientific staff and equivalent members of the University of Namur.