3rd EP Workshop: VLEO Propulsion and Material Challenges
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VLEO Propulsion and Material Challenges
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About the Workshop
The 3rd EP Workshop: VLEO Propulsion and Material Challenges 2026 will bring together researchers working on very low Earth orbit technologies, air-breathing electric propulsion, atomic oxygen material interactions, and ground-based simulation of the VLEO environment.
The workshop is intended as a compact and focused forum for scientific exchange between researchers active in propulsion development, material degradation studies, diagnostics, and test facility development. Particular emphasis will be placed on the coupled challenges of propulsion system operation and material survivability in the rarefied, atomic-oxygen-rich environment of very low Earth orbit.
The workshop aims to support direct exchange between early career researchers, including Master’s and PhD students, and senior researchers working on experimental, numerical, and technological aspects of VLEO-relevant research.
Scientific Scope
The workshop focuses on propulsion and material challenges associated with very low Earth orbit operation. Contributions aligned with the following topics are particularly welcome:
- Air-breathing electric propulsion concepts and intake design
- Atomic oxygen interactions, oxidation, erosion, and surface degradation
- Material selection, coatings, and protection strategies for VLEO operation
- Ground-based simulation, diagnostics, and test facility development
Contributions from experimental, theoretical, numerical, technological, and application-oriented perspectives are welcome.
Workshop Format
The workshop will feature contributed presentations, discussion sessions, and scientific exchange.
Participation is only possible with a contribution aligned with the scope of the workshop. The number of workshop slots is limited to 20 participants.
Applications from early career researchers, including Master’s and PhD students, are particularly encouraged. Applications from senior researchers are welcomed as well.
Important Dates
| Application deadline | 31 July 2026 |
| Notification of acceptance | 16 August 2026 |
| Workshop | 24 to 25 September 2026 |
Application
To apply for participation, please send an email briefly outlining your field of research, current affiliation, and the title of your planned presentation.
Participation is only possible with a contribution aligned with the scope of the workshop. Workshop slots are limited to 20 participants.
Applications should be sent to VLEO.Workshop@uni-giessen.de.
Expenses
There is no registration fee for the workshop.
Thanks to dedicated funding, accommodation expenses will be covered for all participants. Travel expenses will not be covered.
A social gathering is planned during the workshop. Participation is optional.
Programme
The detailed programme will be published after completion of the application process. The preliminary structure of the workshop will include contributed presentations, discussion sessions, and dedicated time for scientific exchange.
Venue
The workshop will take place at Kongresshalle Gießen, located at:
Südanlage 3
35390 Giessen
Germany
The venue is located in the centre of Giessen and is accessible by public transport from Giessen railway station. Further travel and accommodation information will be provided in due course.
Organisers
The 3rd EP Workshop: VLEO Propulsion and Material Challenges 2026 is hosted and organised by the Ion Thrusters Group of the Justus Liebig University Giessen.
Contact
For questions regarding the workshop, application, or organisational matters, please contact the organising team.
Email: VLEO.Workshop@uni-giessen.de
