2026 Innovation Summit

August 16 -17, 2026 — Lisbon, Portugal 

A Different Kind of Summit

The ASTRO ACCEL Innovation Summit is not a traditional conference. It is a working summit designed to support collaboration, project development and sustained engagement across the ASTRO ACCEL network.

Participants come to:

  • Advance a concrete project, collaboration or idea
  • Work alongside others in structured, facilitated sessions
  • Build relationships that continue after the summit
  • Strengthen research–practice partnerships in astronomy education, communication and culture

The summit emphasizes doing work together, not just presenting finished results.

When & Where

The Innovation Summit will take place in Lisbon, Portugal, at the Pavilhão do Conhecimento, with official programming from 16:00 – 20:00 on Saturday, August 15; and from 09:00 – 18:00 on August 16 and 17. Participants should plan to arrive on August 14, and depart on the 18. Registration will close May 15, or earlier if our max number (150) of attendees is reached.

Participation Beyond the Summit

There will be online pre- and post-summit events, and your participation in these online events is strongly encouraged. If you cannot attend synchronously, we ask that you participate asynchronously (e.g., watch recordings, be part of online discussions, etc.). Specific dates and times are yet to be determined. 

Register
Join ASTRO ACCEL

Network

Connect with an international network of collaborators.

Learn

Exchange knowledge on collaboration, evaluation and sustainability.

Collaborate

Co-develop ideas, proposals and initiatives with other attendees.

Accelerate

Move projects forward with structured support. 

Engage

Continue conversations and collaborations using ASTRO ACCEL Commons.

Registration Fees

Registration fees are on a tiered system to try to encourage participation and perspectives from multiple types of groups while acknowledging the logistical cost of hosting this event. 

Registration fees (USD): 

  • $100 Students (currently attending a post-secondary institution or graduate school)
  • $200 Practitioners (teachers/educators in formal or informal settings)
  • $200 Early Career Researchers (5 years or less from graduation with a terminal degree)
  • $300 Faculty members or other employed professionals

The Summit registration fee will include:

  • Admittance to the ASTRO ACCEL Innovation Summit 2026 events 
  • Dinner on 15th
  • Lunch, coffee, and light refreshments during official program days (16th and 17th)

Participants should plan to cover:

  • Breakfasts
  • Dinners not associated with official events
  • Other costs associated with their travel, and their own entertainment while in Lisbon

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should register?

The summit is best suited for people who:

  • Are actively engaged with ASTRO ACCEL (via previous summits, Commons, and/or attending the pre- and post- virtual sessions) or plan to be
  • Have a project, idea, or collaboration they want to move forward
  • Are willing to participate actively in workshops or working sessions

Have the capacity to work in respectful, long-term, collaborative projects that value diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

What does “active participation” mean during the summit?

What does “active participation” mean during the Summit?

Active participation may include:

  • Working on a project during facilitated sessions
  • Contributing to discussions and collaborative activities
  • Facilitating or co-facilitating a workshop or working group (optional)
  • Sharing ideas, feedback, and expertise with others

We hope that your participation will not just be limited to the Summit, but that you will be participatory before and after the Summit via the Commons or in additional ways. 

Not everyone will have a formal speaking role, and that is okay. What matters most is engagement and collaboration.

Will there be opportunities to present or lead sessions?

Yes. The summit will include:

  • Facilitated working sessions
  • Workshops
  • Project pitches or discussions
  • Opportunities to share work informally

You will be asked during the application process if you are interested in facilitating or leading a session, but this is not required to participate.

Do I need a visa?

Some participants may require a visa to enter Portugal. If you indicate that you need a visa:

  • We can provide an invitation letter if needed
  • You are responsible for submitting and managing your visa application

Please apply for a visa as early as possible if a visa is required.

Will my participation be part of ASTRO ACCEL research or evaluation?

ASTRO ACCEL conducts research and evaluation to understand how networks support collaboration and innovation. Participation may involve:

  • Completing surveys
  • Providing feedback
  • Participating in reflective activities

Any research participation will follow ethical and IRB guidelines, and more information will be provided as applicable.

Who is responsible for booking travel?

All participants are responsible for:

  • Booking their own flights
  • Securing accommodations (view a list of recommended hotels near the venue. We encourage you to make your accommodations early; the prices increase the closer to the time of the event.
  • Managing visa applications and travel documents such as passports
  • It is your own responsibility to book your own travel insurance either through your institution or through your own process.

ASTRO ACCEL does not provide a travel agent and does not book flights, or make accommodation on behalf of participants.

I still have questions — who should I contact?

If you have questions that are not addressed here, please contact:

Anica Miller Rushing (amillerrushing@aui.edu) or Yasmin Catricheo (ycatricheo@aui.edu)

We want you to feel informed and supported as you decide whether to apply.

Lisbon Information

We are excited to welcome you to Lisbon for the ASTRO ACCEL Innovation Summit. Below you will find curated recommendations for sightseeing, dining, lodging, and transportation to help you make the most of your stay.

Places to Visit

Where to Stay

Where to Eat

  • D’Bacalhau: Famous for serving codfish (bacalhau) in many different traditional Portuguese styles. 
  • The Old House: An upscale restaurant specializing in authentic Sichuan Chinese cuisine. 
  • Arigato: A top choice for sushi lovers with a great view of the Oceanarium.
  • Butchers: A great spot for high-quality aged meats and steaks. 

Transportation and Connectivity 

Getting Around Parque das Nações

  • Walking: The area is flat and very pedestrian-friendly, especially along the riverfront. 
  • Cable Car (Telecabine): Offers a scenic ride along the waterfront from the Oceanarium to the Vasco da Gama Tower. 
  • Gare do Oriente: The main transport hub where you can find Metro, trains, and buses. 

From Parque das Nações to Lisbon City Center

  • Metro (Red Line): Take the Red Line from Oriente towards São Sebastião. To reach the historical center (Baixa/Chiado), change to the Blue or Green line at Alameda or São Sebastião. (Approx. 20-30 mins). 
  • Train (CP): Catch a suburban train from Oriente to Santa Apolónia. It’s the fastest way to get near Alfama and the city center (only 7-10 mins). 
  • Taxi / Uber / Bolt: A ride to the city center typically takes 15-20 minutes and costs between €10 and €15, depending on traffic. 
  • Bus (Carris) 
    • Bus 728: A scenic route that goes along the river directly to Praça do Comércio and Belém. 
    • Bus 759: Goes to Restauradores/Rossio (central Lisbon). 

    Code of Conduct

    ASTRO ACCEL is a global network of multidisciplinary professionals committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative environment. We value diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and ways of knowing.

    All participants are expected to engage with one another with professionalism, integrity, and mutual respect. Conduct that undermines the safety, dignity, or full participation of others will not be tolerated. 

    We ask that you carefully review our full Code of Conduct and ensure that your participation aligns with our shared principles and values so that we may have a productive and successful meeting. If you have any questions or need clarification, please do not hesitate to reach out.