A new European journey has officially begun.
On 16 April, the project S.P.A.C.E., Science & Public Awareness through Creative Exploration celebrated its official opening, marking the start of an ambitious, creative and citizen‑centred science engagement mission led by USTP - University of Applied Sciences St. Pölten.
Funded under the Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Actions (MSCA) - European Researchers’ Night, S.P.A.C.E. transforms science from something observed at a distance into something people can experience, question and co‑create. The project brings together research, education, art and public participation to strengthen trust in science and make European research visible in everyday life.
A Strong European Collaboration
S.P.A.C.E. is coordinated by USTP, drawing on its long‑standing expertise in science communication, citizen engagement and European cooperation. The project is implemented in close collaboration with Ars Electronica, including ESERO Austria, and Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) through its internationally recognised Circus of Knowledge.
The initiative is further strengthened by the involvement of the European University Alliance E³UDRES², which joins the project as an Associated Partner. Through E³UDRES², S.P.A.C.E. is embedded in a wider European ecosystem of universities and regions, enabling cross‑border exchange, replication of formats and long‑term impact beyond individual events.
Together, the partners combine scientific excellence, artistic innovation and regional outreach, turning science into a shared European experience.
Science as an Experience, Not a Lecture
Inspired by the Overview Effect, the shift in perspective astronauts experience when looking at Earth from space, S.P.A.C.E. invites citizens to explore science through personal, societal, planetary and creative “spaces.” Artistic and immersive formats act as translators, helping people connect with complex research topics emotionally, intuitively and critically.
From climate and space research to digitalisation, health and social cohesion, S.P.A.C.E. creates new spaces for dialogue: public squares, schools, cultural venues and digital platforms become sites of curiosity, creativity and exchange.
A year‑round Researchers at Schools programme complements the flagship events, ensuring that young people, especially in non‑metropolitan and underserved regions, encounter research in ways that feel relevant, inclusive and inspiring.
Save the Dates: Two Flagship European Researchers’ Nights
The mission will culminate in two major public milestones:
📍 25 September 2026 – St. Pölten, Austria
USTP hosts the European Researchers’ Night in St. Pölten with a city‑wide programme of interactive stations, show from the Science Busters , science‑theatre formats by the Zirkus des Wissens (Circus of Knowledge), participatory activities and school showcases, transforming the city into an open science landscape.
📍 24 September 2027 – Linz, Austria
A spectacular finale in collaboration with Ars Electronica and JKU – Circus of Knowledge, celebrating science as a shared cultural experience and looking ahead to the future of citizen engagement in Europe.
Both events will be connected through European “wormholes,” live links and collaborations that showcase Europe-wide research and the role of European University Alliances in shaping the future of science engagement.
A Mission with Legacy
Beyond individual events, S.P.A.C.E. is designed to leave lasting traces: open educational resources, replication toolkits and policy insights will support future European Researchers’ Night editions and science engagement initiatives across Europe. Through USTP’s leadership and E³UDRES²’s alliance structures, the project contributes to a growing, decentralised European science culture where citizens are not audiences, but participants.
The countdown has begun!
Science is entering into S.P.A.C.E. and everyone is invited on board.
Links
➞ USTP – University of Applied Sciences St. Pölten
➞ Ars Electronica
➞ JKU - Circus of Knowledge
Article created by: USTP
