With 750 attendees and over 50 national and international speakers from government, defence, industry, and the climate and security sectors, the symposium brings together a unique mix of expertise in the heart of Amsterdam. As our reliance on satellite systems for communication, navigation, climate monitoring, and security continues to grow, international cooperation becomes increasingly essential. NLR is proud to be a platinum sponsor and support the Amsterdam Space Symposium, which highlights the pressing need for a safe, reliable, and future-proof space domain.
Space as a strategic pillar of security and climate
The programme centres on two themes that resonate with NLR’s work: Space for Security & Defence and Space for Climate. Within the security domain, space has become an operational environment where military and civilian interests intersect. The symposium will feature prominent discussions on European strategic autonomy and the protection of critical space infrastructure. NLR has been developing technologies that support these ambitions for years, including Space Traffic Management, cybersecurity for space applications, and communication systems resistant to disruption, such as jamming and spoofing.
Space also plays an ever more important role when it comes to climate change. Satellites, for example, provide crucial information on biodiversity, water quality, emissions, and extreme weather conditions. The challenge no longer solely lies in collecting data but also in translating it into actionable insights for policymakers, emergency responders, and industry stakeholders. NLR is actively engaged in earth observation, data processing, and modelling to facilitate informed decision-making. The symposium offers a unique opportunity for sharing knowledge and forging new partnerships.
Inspire – Explore – Act
The two-day programme is structured to take participants on a journey from inspiration to in-depth exploration, and ultimately to action. The strategic importance of the space domain will be underscored by contributions from leading experts, including Lieutenant General André Steur, EU Space Ambassador Marjolijn van Deelen, ESA Director Simonetta Cheli, and climate scientist Prof. Dr. Pieternel Levelt. In-depth sessions will examine opportunities and challenges in detail, while workshops will focus on developing concrete follow-up steps. This blend of visionary thinking and practical collaboration is in line with NLR’s approach: combining strategic insight with technological innovation.
Building a resilient future together
The Amsterdam Space Symposium represents a pivotal moment for the Dutch space sector. While the challenges are considerable, the opportunities are equally substantial. For NLR, the symposium reinforces our collective responsibility to continue investing in safe, sustainable, and innovative space infrastructure as a foundation for both our security and climate ambitions.
Meet NLR at the symposium
During the Amsterdam Space Symposium 2026, NLR will be present with a dedicated booth where visitors can meet our experts, explore our latest innovations, and learn more about our work in secure, sustainable, and future‑proof space systems. Our team will be available throughout the event to discuss ongoing research, strategic partnerships, and opportunities for collaboration across the space, defence, and climate domains.
As part of our commitment to fostering dialogue and advancing thought leadership, NLR will also host a panel on Wednesday 4 March from 11:45 – 12:30 titled “Securing the Future: Navigating Space, Security and Climate in Turbulent Times.” Leaders from space, defence and policy will discuss priorities for space-enabled security, the role of Earth observation, and the path toward stronger international cooperation over the next five years.
Would you like to meet NLR during the Amsterdam Space Symposium 2026 on 3-4 March or discover more about our role in the space domain? Visit the event website for tickets and registration details, and meet our experts in person at the symposium.
