Hello Wrocław? Tu ISS! This is the ISS! [photo report from the connection with the astronaut]

What are the effects of being in space and are they very noticeable? Have the studies conducted on the ISS contributed to the development of new materials and technologies used in everyday objects? What are the biggest hygiene challenges in zero gravity? After many days of waiting, young space enthusiasts were finally able to connect with Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski and ask him questions about the IGNIS space mission, research conducted in space and the life of an astronaut. It was worth the wait!

Around 300 people participated in the event, which took place today at the University of Wrocław and connected them with the Polish astronaut currently staying at the International Space Station (ISS). They included winners of space competitions organised by POLSA since autumn 2024, as well as children, young people and teachers from primary and secondary schools where the ‘space path’ is particularly active.

During the meeting, participants connected with the ISS via radio. The connection was made possible thanks to the kindness of shortwave radio operators from the ARISS programme.

The questions asked to Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski were selected in the ‘Ask an Astronaut’ competition organised by POLSA in December 2024.

In addition to the main event, i.e. the connection with Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, children, teenagers and students participated in space-themed workshops and demonstrations prepared by the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy of the University of Wrocław.

On behalf of the authorities of the University of Wrocław, the guests were welcomed by the Vice-Rector for Finance and Development of the University of Wrocław, Dr Arkadiusz Lewicki, Prof. UWr. Anna Bukiewicz-Szul, representative of POLSA, talked about the IGNIS mission. The special guest was Piotr Kosek from Astrofaza, who presented Polish experiments on the ISS to the audience. The event also featured a panel discussion on space technologies transferred into everyday life, with the participation of experts: Dr Katarzyna Cichecka from ESA, Dr Leszek Orzechowski from Lunares and Dr Paweł Presia from the Astronomical Institute of the University of Wrocław. The discussion was moderated by Piotr Kosek.

The event was organised by the Ministry of Development and Technology, the Polish Space Agency and the European Space Agency. It was co-organised by EC1 and the University of Wrocław.

Photo report: Wojtek Chrubasik