The European Space Agency (ESA) was proud to host “Una Notte dello Spazio,” or “A Night of Space” in Pisa, 22 July. ESA's Space Camp for young people aged 8-17 in Pisa was the inspiration for this exciting event. During La Notte, the Space Camp students, local organizations and companies, and the general public were all united under the common interest of exploring our Universe.
The EU-UNAWE Italy team, located at the Observatory of Arcetry in Florence, was invited to have their own booth for the event along the terrace of the Giardino Scotto, (or Scotto Garden). The booth had hands-on activities for children to learn about astronomy, as well as information about the EU-UNAWE network.
The night included presentations, 3D movies and a guest lecture by Italian astronaut Paolo Nespoli, who just returned in late May from the International Space Station. Nespoli shared his experiences of traveling in space, and also showed pictures he took of the earth, including some of Italy, from the ISS.
Between the 150 Space Camp participants, and over 400 members of the public, a large number of people were inspired by this event to learn more about astronomy and space exploration.