Space Night Jena 2026

SPACE NIGHT 2026 raises awareness of space exploration in Thuringia, provides information on regional developments, opportunities for participation, and future prospects, and creates a space for exchange and networking. It is an event for school students, university students, experts, and the interested public.

A special highlight is Jena’s concrete contribution to NASA’s Artemis II mission: At the EAH Jena, a scientific payload for the DLR-funded TACHELES satellite was developed in collaboration with VESPE e.V.; Jena Optronik GmbH is participating in the mission by supplying star sensors. Both examples demonstrate that space exploration is not merely observed but actively shaped from within Thuringia.

The program is correspondingly diverse:

Eight presentations in the thematic blocks “Back to the Moon with Artemis,” “Optics in Space Technology,” and “Student Space Exploration” provide insights into current developments. Several exhibitors, including Jena Optronik GmbH and Starlab Space GmbH, along with various hands-on activities, live workshops, and vivid demonstrations, invite visitors to explore and participate. Special highlights include a guide star laser capable of creating an artificial star in the night sky, as well as the launch of a stratospheric balloon.

Admission is free of charge.

More information and the program are available here.