Following the success of the first edition, SPACERAISE returns in 2026 as the international summer school focused on high-impact space and interdisciplinary applications, promoted by Gran Sasso Tech (GST) and the Gran Sasso Science Institute (GSSI).
SPACERAISE is characterized by a multidisciplinary approach involving the GSSI Departments of Computer Science and Social Sciences, the expertise of renowned international lecturers, the know-how of major aerospace industries, including Thales Alenia Space Italy and organizations within the Abruzzo Aerospace District, and the contribution of experts from leading space agencies such as NASA and ESA.
The training program is structured into three intensive one-week modules, each designed to address major technological and application challenges in the space sector:
- Robotics for Space Applications, dedicated to safe programming and the operation of robots used in space exploration, inspection, and maintenance.
- Artificial Intelligence for Space, addressing the use of AI onboard satellites for predictive maintenance, image analysis, and anomaly detection.
- Geospatial Data and Analysis in Social Sciences, focused on leveraging innovative geospatial data sources, including Earth Observation and remote sensing, and state-of-the-art analytical techniques for concrete applications in economics, geography, and urban science.
SPACERAISE, held entirely in English, will take place in L’Aquila from May 4 to 22, 2026, and is open to talented students, master’s students, PhD candidates, researchers, and professionals from diverse disciplinary backgrounds.
“The first edition of SPACERAISE was a great success: a team of 58 international lecturers from academia, the aerospace industry, and space agencies trained 150 participants from 32 countries. We are very pleased to collaborate once again with GSSI to organize this second edition,” said Giovanni Campolo, Scientific Director of Gran Sasso Tech. “Technologies such as artificial intelligence and robotics are playing an increasingly important role across space activities, from design to maintenance and exploration. They are not only improving operational capabilities but are also laying the foundation for a more autonomous, innovative, and sustainable industry.”
Francesco Basciani, Researcher at the Gran Sasso Science Institute and Scientific Coordinator of the second edition, adds: “SPACERAISE 2026 reinforces the ambition to create a space where research, industry, and advanced training can naturally interact. This new edition broadens the school’s perspective by including geospatial data analysis and its interdisciplinary interpretations. SPACERAISE 2026, therefore, integrates technology, research, and societal impact, offering participants a comprehensive and multidisciplinary understanding of modern challenges in the space sector. It is an opportunity to engage with international experts and understand how space technologies can enhance not only systems in orbit but also our ability to analyze and interpret the world we live in.
Online applications, open from 10 December 2025, will close on 31 January 2026. Selected candidates will have free access to all scientific sessions and networking activities included in the program. SPACERAISE also offers merit-based scholarships. SPACERAISE and encourages applications from different countries, backgrounds, and career stages.
The second edition of SPACERAISE is funded by SAFI3, a network of advanced training schools in Southern Italy (GSSI, SSC, ISUFI, and SSM), as part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), and is supported by the Abruzzo Region.
For detailed information on the program and the application process, please visit the school’s official website: https://spaceraise.academyPer informazioni dettagliate sul programma e sulle modalità di iscrizione, è possibile visitare il sito ufficiale della scuola: https:spaceraise.academy.