This workshop aims to provide an introduction to the fascinating world of tardigrades and their relevance in astrobiology. Through a combination of lectures and hands-on activities, participants will explore the biology of these microorganisms, known for their ability to survive extreme conditions, from freezing temperatures to exposure to the vacuum of space. Their role in astrobiological research will be discussed, highlighting experiments conducted in space and their potential to aid in the search for extraterrestrial life. Water bears, also known as tardigrades, are very small, segmented animals. The largest species is just over one millimetre in length. Water bears live in temporary ponds and droplets of water in soil and on moist plants. They are known to survive under conditions that would kill most organisms – they can withstand temperatures ranging from -272 deg C to +150 deg C, they can be without water for a period of 10 years, and they are extremely resistant to radiation.

In addition to theoretical lectures, the workshop will include a field trip around the Molėtai Astronomical Observatory, where attendees will collect samples from potential tardigrade habitats. Later, in the laboratory, they will learn how to locate and isolate these organisms for microscopic observation, identifying their characteristics and structures while also learning how to cultivate tardigrades at home.

This workshop is designed for university students, researchers, and enthusiasts of microbiology and astrobiology, offering a unique opportunity to understand how extremophiles can provide insights into life on other planets. With a practical and accessible approach, participants will learn about tardigrades and experience their search and analysis firsthand in a real scientific environment.

Venue

2 days at the Molėtai Astronomical Observatory, the other 1 day in Vilnius, Vilnius University Life Sciences Center, Lithuania.

Participants

20 students from Europe will be selected to attend in person. Additionally, an unlimited number of online participants will be able to join. 

Financial support

Trip Vilnius - Observatory, lodging and food in Molėtai observatory will be provided by Europlanet and Vilnius university for everyone.

The financial support for trip to and from Lithuania can be allocated by our partners:

• ESA Academy Short Course Scholarship programme (up to €350 for citizens of an ESA Member State, Associate Member, or Canada) more details HERE
• Embassy of Spain in Lithuania (up to €350 for participants from Spainish educational institutions)
• Polish Institute in Lithuania (up to €200 for participants from Polish educational institutions)

 Key dates:

• Launch of the call for abstracts: 5 June 2025
• Deadline to submit abstracts: 31 August 2025
  
• Abstract selection announcement: 4 September 2025
  
• Registration opening: 5 June 2025
  
• Registration deadline: 31 August 2025

* More information concerning the reimbursement will be provided for the selected participants personally.

Venue

The course is held at the Molėtai Observatory the town with the same name (around 70 km from Vilnius). Last day activities will be held in Life Sciences Center of Vilnius University.
More about Observatory: Please note that the venue is a bit in the middle of nature (as observatories usually are). Thus it is wise to bring all the things you needs with you, since shopping possibilities will be very limited.

   

 Accommodation

All participants will be housed in double and triple rooms at the Molėtai Observatory. There will be one bathroom for 2 or 3 rooms. Linen and towels will be provided. Rooms are not too large, so please do not bring your whole household with you.

Lectures and poster session

Lectures will be held in the auditorium at the Molėtai observatory. Standard poster sizes: A0 (841 x 1189 mm.) portrait or A1 (594 x 841 mm.) landscape.