The lecture will take attendees through Dr. Maurer's landmark mission Cosmic Kiss. As ESA astronaut Matthias Maurer travelled to the International Space Station on 11 November 2021, he embarked on a journey that marked his debut in space. The mission spanned 177 eventful days, culminating in his return via Crew Dragon Endurance, which made a splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico on Friday, 6 May 2022. Joining Matthias on the Crew-3 mission were NASA astronauts Raja Chari, Thomas Marshburn, and Kayla Barron.

During his time in space, Dr. Maurer was at the forefront of scientific exploration, supporting over 35 European experiments along with numerous international ones. The research conducted during this mission promises breakthroughs across multiple fields, from human health to materials science. Such advancements hold profound implications for life on Earth and chart a promising trajectory for the future of space exploration.

Dr. Maurer's selection as the inaugural speaker is a testament to the organizers' vision of advancing the frontiers of materials science and fostering interdisciplinary connections. His insights and shared experiences from the Cosmic Kiss mission will undoubtedly stand out as a pinnacle of the conference, igniting the innate curiosity and adventurous spirit of those in attendance.