From 16 April to 30 September 2025, the University of Milano-Bicocca Library will host the exhibition “Sky Watchers. Italian Stories of Science, Technology and People” — a free, interactive display inviting the public to discover some of Italy’s most remarkable space exploration achievements.
Promoted by MUSA – Multilayered Urban Sustainability Action, a research hub funded by the Italian Ministry of University and Research under the PNRR, in collaboration with Thales Alenia Space Italia, the exhibition tells the story of how Italian academia and aerospace industry play leading roles in scientific missions to observe the Universe and Earth — using accessible and engaging language for all audiences.
“Scientific progress is always the result of people’s passion and dedication,” explains Mario Zannoni, exhibition curator and professor of astrophysics in the Department of Physics 'G. Occhialini'. “More than ever, today’s achievements are the outcome of joint efforts between scientists working in academia and industry. What unites them is a high level of training, curiosity, and the desire to go beyond known boundaries.”
The official opening, by invitation only, will take place on Tuesday 15 April at 10:00 AM with the participation of:
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Giovanna Iannantuoni, Rector of the University of Milano-Bicocca
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Salvatore Torrisi, Scientific Coordinator of MUSA
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Paolo Marchesi, Director & Site Manager of Thales Alenia Space Italia in Gorgonzola
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Claudia Riccardi, Director of the Department of Physics “Giuseppe Occhialini”
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Mario Zannoni, scientific curator and professor of astrophysics at the same department.
Space Missions That Made History (and Future)
The exhibition features four major satellites: BeppoSAX, AGILE, Planck, and BepiColombo — each marking a significant leap in our understanding of the Universe, from gamma-ray bursts and dark matter to cosmic background radiation and the structure of space-time.
Alongside interactive stations providing multilayered explanations, visitors will also encounter original or identical replicas of space-bound components, designed and produced by Thales Alenia Space Italia in collaboration with major Italian research institutions.
“We are proud to contribute to this ambitious exhibition, which celebrates not only the incredible tools and results of human ingenuity but also the dedication and expertise of Italy’s space industry,” says Paolo Marchesi, Director of the Milan site of Thales Alenia Space and Head of Computing, Data Handling, and Science.
“Thanks to cutting-edge technologies, constant innovation, and strong collaboration between industry, institutions, and the scientific community, Thales Alenia Space plays a key role in developing scientific satellites and space probes for deep-Universe exploration.”
An Experience for All — Especially Young Minds
The initiative is open to the general public, the academic community, and, in particular, secondary school and university students. It aims to foster scientific vocations and promote STEM disciplines, helping young people see science as an exciting and accessible challenge. The exhibition is part of the citizen science and outreach activities of MUSA’s Spoke 6.
“Educating younger generations on science and sustainability is one of MUSA’s core goals,” comments Giovanna Iannantuoni, MUSA President and Rector of Milano-Bicocca.
“This exhibition is an invitation to look upwards and believe in the power of Italian research and innovation.”
Guided tours and outreach events will be organised during the exhibition period by the University’s Cultural and Documentary Services Area.