Teatro Niccolini will host COSPAR OFF – Space Meets Florence, a series of three public events dedicated to the new frontiers of contemporary space research.

From the future of observational astrophysics to European space missions, and from gravitational waves to multi-messenger astrophysics, these three evenings will offer the public an opportunity to explore the major themes of cosmic exploration and the scientific challenges that are transforming our understanding of the Universe.

The speakers will include Roberto Ragazzoni, President of the Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF); Andrea Patassa, Italian Air Force test pilot and member of the European Space Agency (ESA) Astronaut Reserve; and Marica Branchesi, astrophysicist at the Gran Sasso Science Institute and one of the world’s leading experts in gravitational-wave astronomy.

Programme

Monday, 3 August 2026 – 9:00 p.m.

Astrophysics from Space: The Global Challenge for the Future

with Roberto Ragazzoni, President of INAF

Astrophysics is one of the great frontiers of human knowledge, while also serving as a powerful driver of technological innovation and international cooperation. Together with Roberto Ragazzoni, we will explore the challenges of observing the Universe from both Earth and space, from adaptive optics technologies to the next generation of giant telescopes.

Wednesday, 5 August 2026 – 9:00 p.m.

The Future of Space Exploration

with Andrea Patassa, ESA Astronaut Reserve Member

Andrea Patassa, Italian Air Force test pilot and member of the ESA Astronaut Reserve, will share his professional journey and discuss the prospects for future European space missions. An opportunity to gain insight into the work, training, and challenges involved in the next era of space exploration.

Thursday, 6 August 2026 – 9:00 p.m.

Gravitational Waves and Space-Based Multi-Messenger Astrophysics

with Marica Branchesi, Astrophysicist, Gran Sasso Science Institute

Marica Branchesi will take the audience into the heart of multi-messenger astrophysics, a new era of research that allows scientists to investigate the most violent phenomena in the cosmos through different types of signals, from gravitational waves to electromagnetic radiation. From the discovery of the landmark event GW170817 to the next generation of space-based observatories, the talk will explore how these advances are reshaping our understanding of the Universe.

Free admission with mandatory reservation: teatroniccolini@firenzeonstage.com