Atoms Looking Back at the Stars: The Story of Humanity, from Stardust to the exploration of Cosmos

Name: Atoms Looking Back at the Stars: The Story of Humanity, from Stardust to the exploration of Cosmos
Start: 2026-02-19T18:00:00+01:00
Location: IIC Copenaghen - Det Italienske Kulturinstitut i København

Schedule

Thu, 19 Feb, 2026 at 06:00 pm

UTC+01:00

Location

IIC Copenaghen - Det Italienske Kulturinstitut i København | Lyngby, SK

A lecture about space exploration by Marco Germinario
The Italian Cultural Institute presents a lecture by Marco Germinario.
At the heart of the talk lies a simple but powerful idea: the universe is not only something we observe. It is something we slowly reveal, piece by piece, through our instruments, our discoveries, and our consciousness — made of the very same atoms as the universe itself. In a way, humanity may be the universe learning to look back at itself.
In this visually rich and accessible lecture, physicist and science communicator Marco Germinario takes the audience on a journey through the past, present, and future of space exploration. Starting from the origins of the Universe and of Homo sapiens, he traces the rapid evolution of our species — from stone tools to rockets, from satellites and space stations to robotic explorers, and to the first realistic plans for human life on the Moon and Mars.
The talk explores the key forces that have shaped our path into space: scientific breakthroughs, technological innovation, and decisive historical moments. It looks at where we are today — private spaceflight, new global ambitions — and asks what it really means for humanity to become a multi-planetary species. From the near future on Mars to the far horizons of cosmic exploration, the lecture invites us to reflect on where we come from and where we may be heading.
The event is accessible to a broad audience aged 12 and above and blends science, storytelling, and powerful imagery. No scientific background required — just curiosity.
The event is free of charge but you must book your seat at:
https://iiccopenaghen.esteri.it/da/gli_eventi/calendario/atoms-looking-back-at-the-stars-the-story-of-humanity-from-stardust-to-the-cosmos-a-lecture-by-marco-germinario/

About the speaker
Marco Germinario studied physics at the Politecnico di Milano and the Niels Bohr Institute in Copenhagen. He is a science communicator, writer, and creator of projects that combine science, storytelling, and visual culture. He regularly gives public lectures on astronomy, cosmology, and the future of human exploration of space, and collaborates with cultural institutions in Denmark and Italy.