Celebrate 50th anniversary
of ESA Basic R&D activities
An event by
Florence / Innovation Center di Fondazione CR Firenze
20-22 May 2025
Celebrate 50th anniversary of ESA Basic R&D activities
Florence
20-22 May
2025
The event will be held in Florence, Italy from Tuesday 20th May to Thursday 22nd May 2025.
This celebration will highlight the significant achievements and contributions of ESA’s research and development efforts over the past five decades. The event will feature panels with top management from ESA and the Italian Space Agency (ASI), as well as panels with mission project managers and other experts. This gathering will provide a unique opportunity to discuss future investments in basic research and development activities, as well as the General Support Technology Programme (GSTP).
In addition to the main events, we will be organizing social activities during the evenings, including a gala dinner and opportunities to explore the beauty of Florence and its surroundings. These activities will provide a chance for networking and socializing among attendees.
The 50th anniversary of ESA Basic R&D activities event will be held at the Innovation Center of Fondazione CR Firenze. Located in Lungarno Soderini, 21, Florence 50124.
Need an accomodation? Find the nearest and best one
Frequently asked questions
Where is the 50th Anniversary of Innovation at ESA event taking place?
Innovation Center of Fondazione CR Firenze, Lungarno Soderini 21/Piazza di Cestello 10, 50124 Florence (Italy)
Is pre-registration required?
Pre-registration is required for the event prior to April 2025, but please do bear in mind that spaces are limited.
Who is the intended audience for the event?
We welcome everyone who has participated in making the European Space Agency’s innovative history so impressive. The event is open to industry colleagues, ministers and delegates, engineers and professionals from relevant organisations and sectors who are involved in the European Space Sector. It is designed to foster collaboration and exchange insights among stakeholders shaping the future of Space engineering.
Is the event hybrid?
The event is in-person but the presentations and panels will be recorded and made available to attendees following the event.
Where is the event schedule or agenda?
A draft agenda is available in the Agenda page of this website. It will be updated regularly.
Who is speaking at the event?
We have invited a range of speakers from across Europe’s space industry. We also welcome keynotes from Ferrari and will host panels with the government advisors we work with from our Member States.
How do I register for the event?
To register, click on the “Register” button and follow the indicated steps. Please bear in mind that availability is limited and therefore it is recommended to register as soon as possible.
Is there a deadline for registration?
The deadline is April 2025, but please bear in mind spaces are limited so make sure to register ahead of time.
Will food and drink be provided?
A breakfast will be provided to the attendees of the event on Tuesday, 20th of May during the reception and registration. For Tuesday 20th and Wednesday 21st of May, a light buffet lunch will be also provided. Additionally, coffee, tea and pastries will be provided during the whole event.
Are there vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free options available?
Yes. If you have specific allergies please note all food will be clearly labelled with the full ingredients list.
Can I cancel my registration and will I be refunded?
Yes, if you need to cancel your registration please contact the organising committee. GSTP.Management@esa.int. Please note that the cost related to the gala dinner will not be refunded.
What should I do if I am unable to attend after registering?
If you are unable to attend after registering please contact the organising committee. GSTP.Management@esa.int
Are there recommended hotels nearby?
While we cannot help arrange accommodation, we have organised a discount with the Destinaton Florence for attendees. Please book using this link: Accomodation
When should I plan to arrive at the event?
Registration will open the morning of Day 1, on Tuesday 20th May from 8:30. While the registration desks will be open all day we suggest arriving early to avoid queues.
Who should attend the social activities?
All attendees are welcome to join the visit to the Leonardo da Vinci museum in Vinci, the Gala dinner on Tuesday 20th of May, the dinner and the city walking tour on Wednesday 21st of May. For more information please refer to the Social activities page.
What payment methods are accepted for the event?
The event is free of charge. For participants interested to attend the gala dinner, more information will be provided at a later stage.
Can I bring a guest of family member?
Please feel free to experience the beautiful city of Florence around the event with a guest or family member. However we cannot extend invitations to the event itself or to the social events due to limited seating numbers.
How do I get to the venue?
To be updated
Is there a dress code?
While there is no official dress code business attire is most suitable.
Will there be wifi-access at the venue?
Yes, there will be an open network at the venue.
Will there be a place to store my coat or bag at the venue?
To be updated
Is the event accessible for people with disabilities?
To be updated
Where can I download the app for the event?
To be updated
Will the event sessions be recorded?
Yes the event sessions will be recorded and recordings will be made available after the event to attendees. With this in mind, if you are a speaker, please consider this when including any confidential information in your presentation.
Will presentation materials be shared following the event?
Yes, the recording of the event will be made available.
Who is sponsoring the event?
While this is a European Space Agency event, we are pleased to be hosting with the Agenzia Spaziale Italiana (ASI) who have supplied the venue, Leonardo S.p.A., Fondazione CR Firenze & Nana Bianca.
What can I visit during my stay?
For advice and information on what is available to see and do in Florence you can visit the official tourism website: Welcome | Feel Florence.
Who do I contact for specific accessibility or dietary needs?
Please contact the organising committee: gstp.management@esa.int.
How do I contact the organisers of the event?
Please contact the organising committee: gstp.management@esa.int.