On 19 June 2025, NL Space Campus spent the day in Enschede to bring together the national Earth Observation community and the regional space sector for a full day of exchange, insight, and connection at the ITC Faculty of the University of Twente.
After a packed daytime programme with EO4impact – Air Quality, where experts from policy, research, and industry explored the role of Earth Observation in air quality monitoring and decision-making, the day continued with a special edition of Network & Drinks: Space Meets Twente.
Held at the heart of Twente’s geospatial research community, the evening welcomed around 65 participants for an informal event full of new conversations, short pitches, and shared ambitions across space, GEO, and beyond.
A place for exchange, curiosity, and new ideas
- TerraPrisma, a startup using AI-powered geospatial tools for mineral exploration and ESG compliance
- LioniX International, highlighting their work in photonic integrated circuits and microsystems for high-tech sectors, including space
- RISE Student Rocket Team, sharing updates on their Phoenix and Alpha rockets and their path to EUROC 2026
- NL Space Campus, with Marc Sandelowsky introducing the community and its role in connecting people, projects, and opportunities
The RISE student team later shared their excitement:
“It was an inspiring evening filled with innovative pitches and exciting discussions about the future of space and Earth Observation,” they said. “We were proud to stand alongside teams like TerraPrisma and LioniX International, and are grateful to all the organisers for making this event possible.”
Pedro Lacerda, Scientific Project Manager at NL Space Campus, reflected on why these types of events are valuable for connecting research and real-world needs:
“It is essential to bring together knowledge creation, the source of progress, and governance where that progress is applied to improve society. That path from A to Z is long and intricate, so an event that puts the parties face-to-face is a potential game-changer. As a scientist, I find it crucial to be exposed to needs and questions from end users, as this helps set a course. ITC Twente was the perfect host for this exchange. And NL Space Campus, as usual, was the glue that held the whole effort together.”
Next edition: Network & Drinks – Technology Needs (25 September)
The next Network & Drinks takes place on 25 September at SBIC Noordwijk, following the third edition Tech Needs Discovery event. Join us for another informal evening where startups, researchers, and professionals come together to exchange ideas, pitch new initiatives, and grow the Dutch space community. Everyone interested in space is welcome.
Visit event page of Network & Drinks
Visit Tech Needs Discovery Event Page
Bring your colleagues, introduce someone new to the campus, or just drop by for a good conversation.
