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FUTURE EXPLORERS

Space, mountains, oceans: Science at the frontiers of exploration

On Saturday 11 July 2026, join us at CERN Science Gateway from 16h onwards for an evening celebrating curiosity and discovery. From space to oceans, to artificial intelligence, cosmic rays and the search for life in the Universe, “Future Explorers” will bring together scientists, engineers, astronauts, sailors, and artists to explore the frontiers of the unknown. Discover with them how collaboration and the drive for curiosity are shaping science and the world around us!

Talks

Session 1: Panel Exploring the frontiers of the unknown with AI

Throughout history, discoveries have often begun with something unexpected. Today, artificial intelligence is transforming the way scientists search for hidden patterns and surprising signals in vast amounts of data. This panel brings together the “Anomaly Detection” documentary filmmaker and particle physicists AI experts to discuss how machines may help us uncover the next scientific breakthroughs, and the contours of this new kind of exploration. 

Moderated by Neal Hartman, ATLAS physicist, co-founder of the CineGlobe festival

Panel: Matteo Benedetti (documentary filmmaker), Katya Govorkova (MIT), Maurizio Pierini (CMS Experiment/CERN)

Session 2: Future Explorers: Space, ocean and a thirst for the unknown

What drives us to venture beyond the horizon? From sailing across the world's oceans to living and working in space, exploration continues to push the limits of human imagination and ingenuity, the same passion and curiosity that drive scientists at CERN to unlock the mysteries of the Universe. Join a panel of explorers, scientists and engineers for a conversation on curiosity, courage and the enduring spirit of discovery.

Special guest Ferdinand Magellan 

Moderated by Paola Catapano

Speakers: Meganne Christian (ESA astronaut), Justine Mettraux (professional sailor), Valentina Venturi (CEO Effetto Venturi) and special guest Ferdinand Magellan

Session 3: The sky is not the limit: a conversation with Sabrina Pasterski and Clara Nellist

What lies beyond the boundaries we set for ourselves? In this dialogue, physicist and science communicator Clara Nellist meets theoretical physicist Sabrina Pasterski to explore some of the biggest questions in modern science. Along the way, they reflect on the importance of collaboration, curiosity and imagination in pushing the boundaries of knowledge (and oneself), and on how the next generation can help shape the future of science.

Dialogue between Sabrina Pasterski (Perimeter Institute) and Clara Nellist (ATLAS Experiment/Amsterdam University/Nikhef)

Session 4: A cosmic adventure: Exploring our planet and beyond

What connects a mountain hut, the International Space Station, the Moon, Earth’s atmosphere, and the search for life beyond our Solar System? Join us for a journey through the history of cosmic-ray research, from explorations in the Alps to cutting-edge experiments and research in space and at CERN. Discover how they help us better understand our Universe, our planet and the conditions that may allow life to emerge elsewhere.

Followed by a Live Connection from Houston with ESA Astronaut Luca Parmitano

Moderated by Paola Catapano

Panel: Emeline Bolmont (CVU/UNIGE), Jasper Kirkby (CLOUD Experiment/CERN/ Goethe University of Frankfur), Elisa Laudi (ALICE Experiment/CERN), Luca Parmitano (ESA astronaut), Roberto Vittori (ESA astronaut).