Space is getting much more exposure at ILA 2008, thanks to an expanded exhibition area and two major events today and tomorrow. With an area of more than 2,500m2, this is the largest space exhibition in Europe this year.
In the Space Pavilion in Hall 9, the European Space Agency (ESA), the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) and the German Aerospace Industries Association (BDLI) are showcasing the current and future German and European space programmes, including manned spaceflight and space exploration.
Visitors have the opportunity to take a look inside the International Space Station’s Columbus Module, experience a 3D virtual flight over the surface of Mars and see a mock-up of a lunar lander.
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| Jean-Jacques Dordain, General Director of ESA |
Satellite-based Earth observation is also the subject of a two-day conference at the show on Tuesday and Wednesday. This will provide an overview of what Earth Observation (EO) applications can offer in the areas of climate, environmental management as well as civil security. Entitled “Earth Observation: Solutions for Decision-Making”, the conference is being run by DLR and BDLI and will focus on the needs of international decision-makers.
After the conference participants have the opportunity to attend Wednesday’s ILA-Space Day, which is being hosted by Michael Glos, the German Federal Minister of Economics and Technology.
Participants will include Jean-Jacques Dordain, general director of ESA, Dr Johann-Dietrich, chairman of DLR, and the heads of European space agencies CNES, CDTI, ASI and BNSC. Together they will look at the issues affecting the leading European states involved in the space industry.
Jean-Jacques Dordain says: "The European Space Agency has long-standing experience of providing Europe's citizens with space-based solutions meeting their requirements. We are prepared to take up the new challenges that the future European space programme will ask us to accomplish."
Wednesday afternoon will also see a session looking at Germany’s future involvement in space activities.
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Source: Flight Daily News
