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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 Medical Sciences SAMS

    News

    Policy recommendations for AI in European healthcare

    AI systems are already being used in many areas of healthcare. How can we ensure that AI delivers patient-centered benefits while being used safely, transparently and fairly? A report sets out recommendations for the responsible use of AI in European healthcare.

  • Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences SAMS

    News

    Ethics consultation: Curriculum and certification of specialists

    There are numerous forms of ethical counselling and support within the Swiss healthcare system. Until now, however, there has been no structured and coordinated program for the certification of specialists working in this field. In September, the Swiss Society for Biomedical Ethics (SGBE) published a curriculum and certification model, thereby closing this gap.

  • Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences SAMS

    News

    New funding program: Advanced Physician Scientists Grants

    The Gottfried and Julia Bangerter-Rhyner Foundation and the SAMS are launching the funding program «Advanced Physician Scientists Grants» to support outstanding mid-career clinicians trained in Switzerland. The program allows them to devote 50 percent of their working time to their research project for two years, alongside their clinical activity.

     

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