Grab your seat for Φnnovation Summit

From 23 to 25 June, ESA Φ-lab will host Φnnovation Summit at ESA-ESRIN in Frascati (Italy). This event will explore how emerging, disruptive technologies can transform the future of Earth observation.

The first edition of Φnnovation Summit will take place from 23 to 25 June 2026 at ESA-ESRIN. Organised by ESA Φ-lab, Europe’s Earth observation disruptive innovation hub, the event will bring together forward-thinking researchers, bold entrepreneurs and technology pioneers to explore the future of Earth observation.

The event was curated to offer something valuable to every attendee: from exploring transformative innovations like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Quantum Computing to Neuromorphic and Edge Computing, Cognitive Space and Immersive Visualisation, this gathering will spotlight disruptive technologies and approaches that could redefine the future of Earth observation.

Φnnovation Summit stands out from other traditional conferences by emphasising the interaction between participants and open exchange. Its community-driven programme features multiple parallel sessions, from fast-paced PechaKucha talks to Fishbowl dialogues, encouraging participants to actively shape the agenda and contribute with their perspectives.

Every morning of the event kicks off with a high-impact main plenary, setting the stage with compelling panel discussions and keynote speeches. Attendees will get insights from directors of ESA, ECMWF, EUMETSAT and the Kenya Space Agency, as well as experts from NASA JPL, ASI, CNES, DLR, the European Commission, Vector Institute, SatCen, ETH Zürich, CERN, Jülich Supercomputing Centre, University of Oxford, Stanford University and MIT, and leading industries like Enel, Pasqal, IonQ, Leonardo, OHB, Thales, Planet Labs and Mistral AI, among many others. 

On 23 and 24 June, talented BSc, MSc and PhD students will take the stage to deliver five-minute pitches, showcasing their bold ideas and research in Earth observation and emerging technologies. Each day will conclude with the selection of a Pitch Hour winner, who will be offered the opportunity to join ESA Φ-lab as a Visiting Researcher.

During Innovation Speed Dating, researchers, entrepreneurs and innovators will have the opportunity to connect through a series of quick, focused one-on-one conversations with ESA staff members.

On 23 June, a relaxed ESA-hosted Cocktail and Buffet Dinner will offer the attendees a moment to unwind, connect with fellow participants and spark new conversations over a refreshing drink. On the night of 24 June, the Gala Dinner will offer a unique opportunity to connect with leaders, innovators and peers, in an elegant evening of fine dining and high-level exchange.

To keep the conversation going, attendees can join one of our non-hosted Thematic Dinners on 25 June. Small groups will be gathered around three curated topics: ‘Technology Push’, ‘Innovation Impact’, and ‘Foundation Models, GenAI and Quantum Computing’. This will be an opportunity to dive deeper into shared interests, meet new people and enjoy good food.

On 26 Jun, participants will have the opportunity to join an unforgettable cultural trip to Rome. Details will be provided soon.

More information about the event and registrations is available on the Φnnovation Summit website.

To know more: ESA Φ-lab

Photo courtesy of ESA.