Autumn Lecture: ESA ESTEC – “Europe’s Largest Space Research Centre in Noordwijk”
On Friday, November 14, 2025, a lecture will be organized by De Oude Dorpskern in Noordwijk about ESA/ESTEC – “Europe’s largest space research and technology centre in Noordwijk” (the past, present, and future). You are warmly invited to attend!
Location: Oude Jeroenskerk, Voorstraat 44, Noordwijk
Start: 20:00 – 21:30 hrs (reception until 22:00 hrs) | Doors open: 19:30
Admission: Free
ESTEC forms the technical heart of ESA: this is where most of ESA’s space projects are designed, tested, and guided through their various development phases, with expertise in satellites, telecommunications, Earth observation, navigation, and space science.
Since 1966, ESA’s ESTEC (European Space Research and Technology Centre) has been located in Noordwijk. Every local resident knows ESTEC, yet what exactly happens behind its gates often remains a mystery.
What role does ESTEC play today? Why is it located in Noordwijk? And what is its vision for the future?
This evening offers a unique opportunity to uncover these questions.
An inspiring talk by:
- Dietmar Pilz, Head of ESTEC and Director of Technology, Engineering and Quality
- Pieter van Beekhuizen, Chairman of the Netherlands Space Society
- and other guest speakers
The presentations will mainly be given in Dutch.
Registration
No registration is required for this lecture – admission is free.
Tip: Arrive early, as seating in the church is limited.
