COSPAR 2026 Press Tour Visits Villa Galileo and INAF Arcetri Observatory

The Committee on Space Research (COSPAR), in partnership with Italy’s National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF), has announced a Media Press Tour for the 46th COSPAR Scientific Assembly. Scheduled for Tuesday, 4 August 2026, it offers accredited science journalists a rare chance to move beyond conference halls and experience—at close range—the institutions that shape astronomy and planetary science.

While global experts meet at Fortezza da Basso to discuss the next era of space exploration, the tour is designed to connect today’s research questions with the historical and scientific landscapes that inspired them. Participants will travel to two Florence landmarks—Villa Galileo and the INAF Arcetri Astrophysical Observatory—using transport provided for accredited media due to the venues’ limited capacity.

At Villa Galileo, media groups can explore the final residence of Galileo Galilei, the figure widely regarded as a founder of modern observational science. The visit emphasizes how early telescopic observation and rigorous inquiry established practices that still underpin contemporary astrophysics, from instrument calibration to observational methodology.

The second stop, the INAF Arcetri Observatory, functions as a modern hub of Italian astrophysics. Journalists will be able to witness how current instrumentation supports research tied to cutting-edge space missions, reflecting the way ground-based facilities amplify what spacecraft measure across the Solar System and beyond.

The itinerary begins at 10:00 CEST and is expected to blend historical context with technically grounded discussion. Tour content will focus on observational infrastructure, mission-oriented astrophysics, and the scientific ecosystem that links data collection to interpretation.

Because the tour takes place in heritage and research settings, the number of participants is capped. Detailed logistics—including pick-up and drop-off points, a full schedule, and practical information—will be emailed to confirmed attendees by 3 August 2026.

Registration is free, but access is restricted to a limited number of registered and accredited media representatives attending COSPAR 2026. Media representatives who are not yet accredited should first secure their complimentary media pass for the Assembly.

Already accredited attendees must RSVP specifically for the Press Tour by emailing the COSPAR 2026 Press Office with their name no later than 28 July 2026. Media contact for the tour is press.cospar2026@inaf.it.