A SpaceUp is a space unconference, also known as a participant-driven conference or a BarCamp.
Participants will decide the topics, schedule, and structure of the event. While other unconferences have been held about technology, science, transit and even cupcakes, the SpaceUp series is focused solely on space.
There are no spectators at a SpaceUp, only participants. While it is not mandatory, attendees are expected to give a demo, present a talk or participate in a panel or roundtable.
Making space for everyone
Any topic can be presented as long as it meets the following criteria:
- it’s about space
- it’s in English
- it’s within the time frame (5, 15 or 30 min depending on the type of session)
VIP guests
Well known space professionals, such as astronauts, scientists, engineers, managers will share their passion with the participants, also in English!
Pictured right is French astronaut Léopold Eyharts during SpaceUp Paris.
Webcast sessions
Some sessions may be webcast and attract thousands of additional participants.
The social-media audience has been measured in hundreds of thousands of unique viewers during previous SpaceUp events. These numbers grow steadily over time, as previous SpaceUp participants seek out new SpaceUps and participate remotely.
Three important dates in the history of SpaceUp
- 2010: The first SpaceUp takes place in San Diego (California, USA).
- 2012: The first European SpaceUp is held in Genk (Belgium).
- 2013: After the creation of SpaceUp France, a non-profit organization, SpaceUp Paris takes place in May; it is the first of a series of SpaceUp in France.
More information on SpaceUp events worldwide is available at www.spaceup.org