Join the IESE Alumni Munich Chapter for an exclusive visit to the headquarters of the European Southern Observatory (ESO), one of the world's leading organizations in ground-based astronomy on Friday, August 28 15:00-17:15
The visit will feature a keynote by Xavier Barcons,
Director General at the European Southern Observatory (ESO), who will
share how ESO has evolved from operating world-class astronomical
facilities to building the next generation of observatories that will
shape the future of astronomy. Learn about iconic projects such as the
Very Large Telescope (VLT), ALMA, and the Extremely Large
Telescope (ELT), currently over 75% complete and set to become the
world's largest optical and infrared telescope.
Following the presentation and Q&A, participants will enjoy a guided behind-the-scenes visit, including:
- Outside view of the Large Integration Hall with Dr. Sara Krauss, Director of Engineering at ESO
- Group photo
- Guided tour of the ESO Supernova Exhibition
Program
14:50 – Arrival at ESO Reception
15:00 – Welcome, keynote by Prof. Xavier Barcons, Director General at the European Southern Observatory (ESO), followed by Q&A
16:00 – Group photo
16:05 – Outside view of the Large Integration Hall
16:30 – Guided tour of the ESO Supernova Exhibition
17:15 – End of the event
Address:
European Southern Observatory ESO
Karl-Schwarzschild-Straße 2,
85748 Garching bei München
This
unique visit offers IESE alumni the opportunity to discover how Europe
is pushing the frontiers of science and engineering while connecting
with fellow alumni in Munich.
About the Speaker
Xavier Barcons
has served as Director General of the European Southern Observatory
(ESO) since 2017. A physicist and astrophysicist from Spain, he
previously held research and leadership positions at the University of
Cantabria and the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), where he
helped establish the Instituto de Física de Cantabria.
An
internationally recognized expert in X-ray astronomy and active
galaxies, Professor Barcons has played a pivotal role in European
astronomy, including Spain's accession to ESO and the development of
major international observatories. His scientific research and
leadership have significantly advanced Europe's position at the
forefront of astronomical discovery.
Acknowledgment
We extend our sincere thanks to Xavier Barcons,
for graciously hosting the IESE Alumni community and making this
exclusive visit possible. We are grateful for his generosity in sharing
his time, insights, and passion for astronomy with our alumni community.
