Over the last decades, space exploration to distant planetary bodies significantly contributed to our understanding of the Universe, as well as our own planet. It paved way to the ambitious effort of long-term human space spaceflight and exploration. The International Space Station in low Earth orbit, extra-terrestrial habitation and a desire to set foot on Mars all result from our longing to understand more and extent the human footprint beyond Earth. However, humankind’s desire to move out of the cradle exceeds the mindset of engineers and planetary scientists and also includes social, cultural, ethical and economic perspectives and implications. Therefore, space exploration and related activities are increasingly witnessing the contribution of the humanities, art related disciplines and the social sciences. The entering of these disciplines within the space era is tremendously important because they help us to critically question the past and the future of space endeavors from a different point of angle.

For instance, detecting the presence of life in other planets will pose huge philosophical problems when considering space exploration. Are humans only allowed to explore and settle if there is no indication for indigenous life? While this question is a valuable ethical, philosophical and religious debate, it should be also addressed from an anthropogenic and biocentric perspective.

PROGRAMME

14.00 Introduction EHC Environmental Humanities and Outer Space

14.15 Bernard Foing

14.45 Daniel Michalik

15.15 Break

15.30 Michael Waltemathe

16.00 Marie-Luise Heuser

16.30 -17.00 General Discussion

17.00-18.00 Drinks