In June 2025, Vienna will host one of the most significant global events in Earth observation: the Living Planet Symposium of the European Space Agency (ESA) will take place from 23 to 27 June at the Austria Center Vienna, marking the first time the event is held in a European capital. More than 6,000 international participants, 250+ sessions, around 5,000 scientific presentations and an extensive program of exhibitions, educational initiatives and public outreach will make Vienna the center of the global space and Earth observation community that week. Under the theme “From Observation to Climate Action and Sustainability for Earth”, the symposium will focus on the sustainable use of satellite-based data and its applications for society at large.

Vienna as a Stage for Space Science, Sustainability and Innovation

The ESA Living Planet Symposium brings together key stakeholders from politics, science, industry, and space agencies. At the core of the program is the question of how satellite-based data – such as that provided by Europe’s Copernicus program – can help address global challenges including climate change, disaster preparedness, and sustainable urban development. The event is supported by Austria’s Federal Ministry for Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure (BMIMI) and the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG).

A particular highlight is the LPS School Lab, taking place from 23 to 25 June at the Austria Center Vienna. This three-day educational initiative is tailored to students aged six and above and their teachers, offering them a playful, hands-on introduction to Earth observation and space science. The curated daily program includes workshops, live science shows, expert talks and interactive activities that bring space topics such as climate research and environmental monitoring to life.

Journalists are also warmly invited to attend the ESA Living Planet Symposium. Full details are available here.

Sustainability and Inclusion at the Core

The ESA Living Planet Symposium 2025 is organized as a sustainable event. In close cooperation with partners such as the Austria Center Vienna, a comprehensive plan has been implemented to minimize environmental impact — including low-emission travel options, eco-labelled accommodations, plastic-free catering, and a focus on digital rather than printed materials. Attendees are encouraged to contribute actively by using public transport, bringing refillable water bottles, and embracing sustainable practices during their stay. The goal is to reduce the event’s carbon footprint while establishing best-practice models for future events.

At the same time, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) are fundamental pillars of LPS25. A clear Code of Conduct, full accessibility, live subtitling, dedicated prayer, meditation and breastfeeding rooms, and on-site childcare for children aged 3 to 12 ensure that everyone – regardless of background, identity, or personal situation – can engage fully and equally in the symposium. 

Public Festival “Space in the City”: Experience Space Technology Up Close

Running in parallel to the symposium, Karlsplatz in central Vienna will become a dynamic space lab under the open sky from 24 to 26 June 2025. The “Space in the City” festival, organized by Urban Innovation Vienna on behalf of the BMIMI, invites visitors of all ages to engage with Earth observation and satellite technologies in an inspiring and creative way – with free admission.

Austrian ESA reserve astronaut Carmen Possnig and space entrepreneurs will share insights into the future of space travel. Experts from ESA and the City of Vienna will discuss how satellite data can help make cities more climate-resilient and livable. Musical interpretations and a fashion show featuring designs based on satellite imagery will bridge the gap between science and art. The festival will also highlight the internationally acclaimed “Waltz into Space” mission by the Vienna Tourist Board, ESA and „The Wiener Symphoniker“ .

Hands-on experiences are at the heart of this open-air event: Young visitors can embark on a virtual space mission in the SpaceBuzz rocket, while adults can explore satellite data using interactive tools like “Earth from Space”. A sound installation transforms environmental data from Vienna into an immersive audio experience. At the ArtEO station, creative minds can design digital artworks using real Earth observation data, and a large-scale outdoor exhibition will display satellite images of Vienna and the Earth, offering a striking visual perspective on our planet’s beauty and fragility.

“Space in the City” thus offers a low-threshold entry point to space-related topics for Viennese residents and visitors alike – while also serving as an inspiring side program for international conference delegates. It’s a vivid example of how science communication can reach beyond expert circles and into the heart of the city.

A Global Event with Lasting Impact for Vienna

Hosting the ESA Living Planet Symposium 2025 once again confirms Vienna’s role as a leading global city for science, innovation and international congresses.

“The European Space Agency’s decision to hold its Living Planet Symposium in a European capital for the first time – and choosing Vienna – is a major recognition of the city’s appeal and international standing,” says Norbert Kettner, CEO of the Vienna Tourist Board.