Training Schools

Overview

The ESPI Training School is a flagship initiative designed to equip diverse professional communities with the knowledge, tools, and networks necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of space activities and their intersection with policy, society, and industry.

Building on ESPI’s 2040 vision—Space for Prosperity, Peace & Future Generations—the Training School recognises that realising the full potential of space requires a multi-stakeholder approach. Space is not just a domain for scientists and engineers; it is increasingly central to journalism, policymaking, legislative processes, and broader societal challenges.

For more information about our Training Schools, or if you have questions, please contact:

• ESPI Education Officer Gillian Chin at <Gillian.Chin@espi.eu>

2026 Training School on Space Journalism

ESPI and LUISS School of Journalism Data Lab are pleased to launch the second edition of the European training school for journalists, “From Space Journalism to Satellite Journalism: The Big Picture.” This pioneering initiative equips media professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to report on the rapidly evolving world of space activities and space-enabled data.

This three-day intensive programme, from 30 September – 2 October 2026, offered to selected journalists, provides participants with the skills to analyse, interpret, and communicate key developments in the space sector. Participants will learn how to navigate the complexities of the industry and translate them into clear, compelling stories for their audiences, with a strong focus on real-world developments that are likely to shape the space agenda in the months ahead.

Led by leading space experts and experienced media professionals, the programme combines foundational insights into the space ecosystem with hands-on training in reporting on space policy, industry developments, and the growing use of satellite-derived data in journalism. By engaging with concrete, forward-looking case studies, participants will gain a deeper understanding of complex policy, technological, and market dynamics, while developing practical knowledge directly applicable to the stories they will cover.

At the end of the training school, participants will:

• gain foundational knowledge of the technical, political, industrial, economic, and societal dimensions of space activities
• master best practices for producing high-quality and insightful reporting on space affairs
• learn to access, use, and interpret space-based data in journalistic work
• build networks with experts and professionals in the space sector

Download the detailed programme here.

Selection Procedure:

• Eligibility: Open to working, professional journalists.
• Selection: A maximum of 25 participants will be selected.
• Required Documents:
  • Resume;
  • Reference Letter from a media organisation, editor, or industry professional; and
  • Two samples of work (newspaper/media articles).

Selection Criteria:

• Proved journalism experience and professional background;
• Motivation explaining interest in space journalism; and
• Optional endorsement from referees (e.g., newspaper editor)

Timeline:

• Application Deadline: 30 June 2026 (Applications now open!)
• Communication to Successful Applicants: 7 July 2026
• Confirmation of Participation by Selected Candidates: 14 July 2026*

*Please note that your place in the course will only be confirmed once the course once the registration fee has been paid.

Fees

The fee covers participation in the training, course materials, coffee breaks, lunches, and any or social activities outlined in the event programme. The Training School is €100 for journalists who meet the eligibility criteria.

Travel & Accommodation

• Participants are kindly requested to arrange their own travel and accommodation.

Call for Applications

Trainers

We are excited to welcome the following esteemed experts as trainers for the 2026 Training School on Space Journalism.