The event kicked off with a welcome from both directors of Aarhus Space Centre. First, Professor Rune Hylsberg addressed attendees, by introducing the purpose of the day and day’s program. He was followed by Professor Hans Kjeldsen, who provided an introduction to the vision and strategy behind the Aarhus Space Centre, emphasizing its pivotal role in advancing space-related research and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. 

Keynote Sessions: Exploring the Importance of Space Research from Multiple Perspectives 

The first major session featured a series of impactful keynote talks from leading space experts. Gorm Petersen of the Danish UFM Space Office kicked off the session, sharing the office’s perspectives on future opportunities for ‘Collaborations, Priorities, and Inspiration’ in space research.” Kim Plauborg from Terma Space Systems offered insights into the role of the private space industry, while Jonathan P. Merrison, from the Department of Physics and Astronomy, Aarhus University, gave insight to “Mars and the Moon simulation activities”. The session concluded with a presentation by Roshanak Darvishzadeh from the University of Twente, who discussed the role of Earth observation in monitoring biodiversity and ecosystem health. 

Fostering a vibrant community 

In the afternoon, attendees took part in a series of thematic splinter sessions, workshops, and a concluding plenary session, each designed to explore specific areas of space research. Through the four sessions—'Earth Observation for a Sustainable Future,' 'Space Education and Career Opportunities,' 'Space Commercialization at AU,' and 'Space and Humanities'—researchers and students shared and gained new perspectives and insights, fostering discussions and deepening their understanding of common interests within each theme. The day concluded with a plenary session exploring AU's engagement with The Strategy for Space and Innovation. The session provided an interactive platform for participants to share ideas and perspectives on AU's future contributions to space research and innovation. Following this, Iris Fernandes of the Niels Bohr Institute in Copenhagen delivered the closing keynote address on lunar surface mapping, providing a framework for selecting optimal landing sites on the Moon. The event wrapped up with a networking reception, allowing attendees to reflect on the day’s discussions and forge new collaborations. AU SpaCe Day not only celebrated the university’s strong presence in space research but also reinforced the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration across academia, industry, and government to drive the future of space exploration. 

Thank you to all who participated and contributed to this great day!