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Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences SATW
‘Life on other planets is of equal value’ – Kathrin Altwegg on the risks, opportunities and limitations of space travel
Astrophysicist Kathrin Altwegg has analysed the chemical composition of a comet using the ROSINA mass spectrometer in Bern and discovered the building blocks of life. In the SRF summer series ‘25 Years of Tagesgespräch’, she caused a stir in July 2026 with her pointed remarks: She questions the scientific value of manned spaceflight, warns of deadly space debris from 2032 onwards, and is convinced that the likelihood of life in space is high. For her, life on Earth and extraterrestrial life are of equal value. In an interview with the SATW, the professor emerita sets out her theories and explains the significance artificial intelligence will have for space research in the future.
Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences SATW
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A hot summer and Switzerland’s energy supply
According to MeteoSwiss, the summer of 2026 was the hottest since records began in 1864. At the same time, there had already been very little rainfall during the winter and spring, leading to extreme drought. The stable high-pressure weather also brought Switzerland a duration of sunshine well above the long-term average. These extreme weather events have far-reaching implications for society and the environment, and specifically for the energy supply. Christian Schaffner, Managing Director of the Energy Science Centre at ETH Zurich, provides an analysis for the SATW.Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences SAMS
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Compassionate Science: how empathy and compassion shape research
The Swiss Young Academy (SYA) gives early-career researchers a voice and provides a platform for inter- and transdisciplinary collaboration. Its recently published report, «Compassionate Science», explores how empathy and compassion shape research practice across different disciplines. The report also offers valuable insights from a healthcare perspective.
Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences SATW
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A direct link to space
In future, satellites are set not only to provide internet access to remote homes, but also to communicate directly with ordinary smartphones. Direct-to-Cell could close mobile dead spots and make communication networks more resilient to crises. However, the path from mobile phones to space poses technical challenges – and raises questions about security and digital sovereignty.