Dark Sky Festival 2026

The Open University is delighted to be supporting The Dark Sky Festival 2026.  

Join us for an engaging afternoon of science, discussion, and delicious food at A’ the Airts Community Arts Centre. Enjoy an afternoon tea accompanied by fascinating talks from leading space and astrobiology researchers.

• The Next Giant Leap: Exploring Space Responsibly
  Saturday 10th October - 14:00 - 18:00
  As humanity expands its reach into the cosmos, how do we balance exploration with ethical responsibility? Join Dr Velislava (Veli) Ilieva, Postdoctoral Research Associate for The MoonRISE Project at The Open University, and Dr Emma Johanna Puranen, Postdoctoral Research Associate in Astrobiology Ethics with Astrobiology at The Open University, for an insightful session on space sustainability and ethics.
   
• Icy Moons: Hidden Oceans and the Search for Life
  Friday 16th October - 14:00 - 18:00
  Beneath the frozen crusts of distant icy moons lie vast, hidden oceans that could hold the key to discovering extra-terrestrial life. Explore the cutting-edge science searching for life in our solar system's most extreme environments with Dr Mark Fox-Powell, Senior Lecturer of Astrobiology at The Open University.

Learn more and book tickets via the Dark Sky Festival website.