This public engagement event is for anyone interested in space science and in the European Lunar Symposium. It is most relevant for ages 14 and over. 

The European Lunar Symposium is the premier Moon-focussed meeting in Europe, attracting experts from across the world to discuss the latest developments in science and exploration of the Moon. The European Lunar Symposium 2024 is taking place in Dumfries from 16 to 20 June. 

The speakers at this public event are all leaders in space science. They are at the forefront of exploration of the Earth's Moon and are European Lunar Symposium delegates. Through the talks and discussions at this event, they will share their experiences behind the scenes of lunar explorations, including the history of private companies being involved in space travel, and the significance of searching for water on the Moon.

Taking place on the day of summer solstice 2024 - the day of the year when the Sun reaches its northernmost position as seen from the Earth - this event follows last year's Solstice Seminars hosted by the Open University and the Crawick Multiverse in Dumfries and Galloway.

Speakers will include: 

• Masaki Fujimoto, Deputy Director General of Institute of Space and Astronautical Science of JAXA, the science institute of Japanese space agency 
• Bethany Elman,  Principal Investigator of NASA's Lunar Trailblazer
• Tim Crane, Chief Technology Officer at Intuitive Machines

A local organising committee is made up of local partners and stakeholders including:

• South of Scotland Enterprise
• The Crichton Trust
• The Crichton Foundation
• The Crawick Multiverse Trust
• South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA) have been supporting colleagues from the Open University to plan and deliver the ELS. 

Timings

Starting with a drinks reception in the Crichton Memorial Church, attendees will then be led to the Easterbrook Hall for the talks and panel discussion.

• 6.30pm to 8pm: Drinks reception, Crichton Memorial Church
• 8pm to 9.30pm: Talks and panel Q&A, Easterbrook Hall