CASSINI Space Camps return across Europe

Following a successful pilot edition in 2025, the CASSINI Space Camps are returning, bringing immersive space education experiences to young people across Europe through the 1st edition of the CASSINI Space Camps, featuring six camps. 

The CASSINI Space Camps are an initiative of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space (DG DEFIS), designed to inspire and equip young people to explore opportunities in Europe’s space sector. Through fully residential, 7–10-day camps, students aged 14–18 will explore EU space technologies and applications, as well as entrepreneurship, while developing technical, entrepreneurial and collaborative skills. Between 2026 and 2028, more than 36 CASSINI Space Camps will take place in EU Member States and Horizon Europe associated countries. 

The 1st edition will feature six local camps in Austria, Cyprus, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Poland and Spain. Participation is free of charge, helping young people from different backgrounds access opportunities within Europe’s growing space ecosystem.

Each camp is delivered by a local organiser while following a common structure to ensure high-quality content and a consistent learning journey. Through educational sessions, hands-on activities, teamwork and exchanges with space professionals, participants will explore how EU space technologies can help address real-world challenges. They will also discover pathways into space-related studies, careers and entrepreneurship. 

Meet Our Local Organisers 

Following an open call, six local organisers were selected to host camps across Europe. Each organiser brings relevant expertise, strong local networks and a commitment to inspire the next generation of European space innovators. 

Austria hosted by University of Salzburg 

The University of Salzburg is Salzburg’s largest educational institution and combines research-based teaching with expertise across six faculties. Its interdisciplinary environment provides a strong setting for introducing young people to opportunities in the EU space sector and inspiring future studies and careers in STEM and space-related fields.

Cyprus hosted by Eratosthenes Centre of Excellence 

The Eratosthenes Centre of Excellence specialises in Earth observation, geospatial technologies and space-based applications. Through its expertise in satellite data and innovation, the Centre will help participants discover how space-based data and services can address real-world and societal challenges.

Lithuania hosted by bit&Byte 

bit&Byte is a creative technology academy that develops digital skills and creativity among children and young people. Through innovative STEAM learning programmes and hands-on activities, the organisation empowers learners to explore emerging technologies and solve real-world challenges. Its experience in engaging young learners will contribute to an inspiring CASSINI Space Camp. 

North Macedonia hosted by NewMENS Business Accelerator

NewMENS Business Accelerator supports entrepreneurship, innovation, skills development and youth engagement. Through educational programmes and capacity-building activities, it helps young people develop the skills and mindset needed to thrive in fast-evolving sectors. The CASSINI Space Camp will connect participants with opportunities in space technology and entrepreneurship.

Poland hosted by Stalowa Wola Regional Development Agency (StARR)

The Stalowa Wola Regional Development Agency promotes innovation and economic development in the region. Through initiatives supporting emerging technologies and talent development, the organisation actively contributes to strengthening the local innovation ecosystem. By hosting the CASSINI Space Camp, the Agency will encourage young people to explore space technologies and their real-world applications. 

Spain hosted by Arribes Enlightenment 

Arribes Enlightenment supports innovation and the transfer of space technologies into non-space sectors, working with companies, start-ups, public institutions and policymakers. Together with Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Arribes serves as ESA Technology Broker for Spain, helping turn space technologies into terrestrial applications that support efficiency, sustainability and resilience. Its participation in the CASSINI Space Camps demonstrates its commitment to inspiring young people and developing future space talent. 

The CASSINI Space Camps form part of a broader effort to foster interest in space-related studies, careers and entrepreneurship, helping Europe develop the space skills it needs for the future.

Find out more: https://www.cassini.eu/spacecamps