EUROPEAN ROVER CHALLENGE

CONFERENCE

During ERC, leading experts, astronauts, and visionaries converge to explore the cosmos and its impact on our past, present, and future. Whether you’re passionate about space exploration, sustainability, or the applications of space technologies on Earth, this conference offers a unique opportunity to be part of the conversation shaping the future of space exploration.
EUROPEAN ROVER CHALLENGE 2026 (4–6 SEPTEMBER)
Each day of the ERC Conference is crafted with a specific theme, providing a comprehensive and insightful exploration of space, from reaching Mars to the practical applications of space technologies here on Earth. The event’s program includes interdisciplinary debates on the future of human settlement on the Moon and Mars, projects and missions to the Silver Globe being developed by NASA and ESA in the coming years, as well as important topics related to sustainability & commercialization.

What to expect?

The first day of the ERC is dedicated to Earth. Topics will include technology transfer, the circular economy, and educating employees of the future. It will also be a day full of mentoring meetings between experts and startups, as well as workshops for students.
The second day will be dedicated to lunar exploration, this year’s and planned missions, robotics and the Artemis mission, but also to conversations about passion, determination and the importance of teamwork. Issues of inspiring and supporting the development of children and young people will be discussed as well.
On the third day we will focus on new technologies and medicine, and the ERC audience will be able to take part in inspiring conversations with guests about the mission to the ISS planned for 2026, digital medicine, plans to establish the Polish Space Medicine Program, and the role of time in our lives.

Debates, presentations & lectures

The ERC brings together leading experts, astronauts, and visionaries to discuss and explore various aspects of space exploration and its broader impact. The conference’s value lies in its ability to bring together diverse perspectives and expertise, contributing to the ongoing dialogue on the exciting and rapidly evolving field of space exploration.   In previous years, the ERC has hosted speakers such as Robert Cabana – NASA Associate Administrator, Steve Jurczyk – former NASA Associate Administrator, Robert Zubrin – founder of The Mars Society, Harrison Schmitt – geologist, NASA astronaut and member of the last mission to the Moon in 1972 – Apollo 17, and Tim Peake – European Space Agency astronaut.
LUKASZ WILCZYNSKI
ERC Founder
In previous years, we have hosted, among others, Harrison Schmitt, a NASA astronaut and member of the last mission to the Moon, and Tim Peake, an astronaut of the European Space Agency. These are true legends, so we are not surprised that meetings with them are always very popular and abound with many questions from the audience.

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Speaker lineup

Each year, we bring together top-notch experts, industry leaders, astronauts and scientists from across the globe, and provide a platform for university students, space enthusiasts, and potential employees in the space sector to share knowledge. Who will you have a chance to meet at the ERC this year?
Speaker lineup will be available soon!

Conference & robotics competition

Don’t miss out the ERC conference – over three insightful days of discussions, presentations, and lectures. Follow the ERC robotics competition finals on the Marsyard and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes view of the exhibitor zone and the grand finale! Engage in expert discussions, gain valuable insights, and cheer for your country’s representation in the competition.

Become a Partner

Discover sponsorship opportunities for Europe’s largest space competition on a simulated Martian surface!

ERC STEM Resource Library

Through the years the ERC has gathered countless video recordings, articles, interviews, debates & presentations on the space sector.

Map & Directions

How to get to the event venue? Where to find a car park? Helpful tips & directions on how to navigate at the event.