Discover the Stellar Lineup for STARMUS La Palma 2025: A Festival like No Other!

In a dazzling announcement at the World Travel Market in London, the STARMUS festival, in collaboration with The Canary Islands, has revealed its star-studded lineup for the eagerly awaited STARMUS La Palma festival. The event, titled "The Island of Stars," was introduced by STARMUS co-founder and Director, Prof. Garik Israelian, alongside Sergio Rodríguez, President of the Cabildo de La Palma.

The focus of this year's festival will be on safeguarding our skies from the threats of pollution and space debris, a pressing issue encapsulated in the "Starlight Declaration." This declaration, promoted by the Starlight Foundation and signed by prestigious international organizations like UNESCO and the United Nations, aims to raise awareness and generate action around the right to experience natural darkness—a cause that has never been more crucial.

A Stellar Collaboration of Icons

Joining forces with the Starlight Foundation, STARMUS La Palma will host an extraordinary lineup of speakers and attendees, including the iconic ethologist and UN Messenger of Peace, Jane Goodall, legendary musician and astrophysicist Brian May, eight Nobel Laureates, and notable astronauts who have pushed the frontiers of space exploration.

Expect presentations from Nobel Prize winners like John Mather, Kip Thorne, and Donna Strickland, as well as tales from astronauts like Colonel Chris Hadfield, first female private space explorer Anousheh Ansari, and ESA astronaut reserve Sara García. The festival will also feature innovators like Tony Fadell, the mastermind behind the iPod and iPhone, and environmental experts dedicated to preserving our planet.

This impressive assembly is set to deliver a multidisciplinary program focused on the critical theme of sky protection. As we enter a new era of space exploration, discussions at La Palma will seek to redefine our role in protecting the cosmos for future generations.

In a heartfelt gesture, this year's festival also aims to support the recovery of La Palma following the devastating volcanic eruption in 2021. STARMUS provides a platform for not only scientific discourse but also for uplifting the local community and culture.

Festival Highlights and Open Access

The festival will unfold with a vibrant schedule, including:

**STARMUS CAMPS**: Two locations in the charming capitals of Santa Cruz de La Palma and Los Llanos de Aridane, featuring a five-day lineup of exhibitions, workshops, live music, and scientific shows.

**MAIN CONCERTS**: The Opening Concert on April 25 in Santa Cruz de La Palma and "The Island of the Stars Concert" on April 26 in Puerto de Tazacorte will be highlights of this lively festival.

**KEYNOTE LECTURES & PANEL DISCUSSIONS**: From April 25 to 29, attendees can engage with thought leaders during focused lectures and discussions (venue details forthcoming).

What’s particularly exciting is that this edition of STARMUS is completely open to the public! While there will be a registration requirement for some keynote lectures due to limited space, these talks will also be live-streamed at the STARMUS CAMPS, allowing broader access to the enlightening content.

La Palma: The New Beacon of Science

Prof. Garik Israelian emphasized the significance of La Palma as the birthplace of STARMUS, stating, "This island is not just a natural paradise; it is a hub of scientific advancement and innovation, home to the world’s largest optical-infrared telescope."

Sergio Rodríguez echoed these sentiments, highlighting how the festival fosters connections between science, art, and philosophy. "It provides an unparalleled opportunity to inspire future generations and ignite scientific curiosity."

The Director of the Starlight Foundation, Antonia Varela, added, "We take immense pride in organizing such a monumental event that draws renowned international scientists and artists to La Palma, an island renowned for its commitment to sky protection."

Exciting Future Updates Ahead!

With even more thrilling announcements to come, including the music lineup and additional programming set for release in January 2025, anticipation is building for what promises to be an unforgettable festival. The recent additions to the STARMUS Advisory Board, including Nobel Laureate Steven Chu and famed astronaut Chris Hadfield, further amplify the festival's prestige.

As the countdown begins, La Palma is positioned to reclaim its place on the global stage as a beacon of scientific inquiry and cultural celebration. Get ready for a festival that not only shines a light on the cosmos but also stirs the spirit of discovery in us all!