Dear Colleagues,
You are invited to submit abstracts especially for two panel sessions at the 45th COSPAR 2026 Scientific Assembly in Florence, 1-9 Aug. 2026 https://cospar2026.org/:
PPP.2 — Planetary Protection Research and Development
PPP.3 — The Future of Planetary Protection for Mars
We welcome contributions on topics including, but not limited to:
- new methods and technologies for contamination control and bio-detection
- advances in assay development, validation, and standards
- bioburden reduction and sterilization strategies
- policy, operations, and ethical considerations for Mars missions
- science needs and roadmaps for future planetary protection requirements
To submit, please use the COSPAR abstract submission portal https://www.cospar-assembly.org/user/mypapers.php?log=1 and select the relevant session code (PPP.2 or PPP.3).
The abstract submission deadline is Friday, 13 February 2026.
Please also check the COSPAR site for formatting requirements. If you have questions about suitability or scope, contact the respective session conveners.
We look forward to your submissions and to a productive discussion in Florence.
Best regards,
Alexander Mahnert, on behalf of all PP scientific organizers
Dr. Alexander Mahnert
email: alexander.mahnert@medunigraz.at
Phone: 0043-316-385-73772
Webex (personal room): https://medunigraz.webex.com/meet/alexander.mahnert
Medical University of Graz
Diagnostic & Research Institute of Hygiene, Microbiology and Environmental Medicine
Neue Stiftingtalstrasse 6, Trakt B
8010 Graz, AUSTRIA