Europe looks into space: why go to EU Space Days in Gdańsk

EU Space Days, one of the key events on the European space agenda, will take place in Gdansk, Poland, from 27 to 28 May 2025. The event is organised by the European Commission with the support of the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union and coincides with the InfoShare Technology Forum, the largest startup conference in Central and Eastern Europe. The focus is on strategy, security, new alliances and civil and defence applications of space technologies.

For the first time, EU Space Days will be held in parallel with InfoShare, creating a unique platform for dialogue between representatives of the space industry and technology startups. With the growing demand for artificial intelligence, big data and digital infrastructure, participants will be able not only to discuss but also to build concrete collaborations with entrepreneurs and investors. Special attention is paid to finding new applications of satellite services in non-traditional industries.

The event's new platform, the AGORA Stage, will be the venue for discussions on the future of space business, sustainable development, career opportunities, gender diversity and the Horizon Europe programme's contribution to research initiatives. Topics include orbital manufacturing, the environment and training for an industry where new competences are required every year.

Senior European Commission officials will present the latest updates on key programmes: Galileo, EGNOS, Copernicus and Space Situational Awareness, as well as on the flagship initiative IRIS², the future European Secure Communications Satellite System. Particular attention will be paid to orbital congestion, collision risks and the need for joint space management standards.

The focus will also be on the EU's security and defence strategy, including the use of dual-use technologies. Participants will discuss how European satellite systems can simultaneously serve civil and defence needs. A special session will focus on Europe's independence in launching satellites, a strategic priority against the backdrop of reducing dependence on foreign providers.

The event will offer a wide range of networking opportunities: from working lunches to a high-level reception on behalf of the Polish Chairmanship. It is a chance for business, academia and government agencies to network, exchange ideas and launch joint projects.

To conclude, the Copernicus Earth Art Exhibition, where satellite images from the Sentinel mission will appear as artworks showing the beauty and fragility of the planet.