RETHINKING Exploration

What does it mean to explore in today's world, and how should exploration be defined for a responsible future? As technological breakthroughs and environmental awareness shape our era, exploration is taking on new meanings and possibilities. This discussion reimagines exploration, from the search for life on distant planets to the narratives that shape our cultural identity, and from the limits of curiosity to the ethical responsibilities of sustainability. Astrophysical insights into exoplanets challenge our understanding of life in the cosmos, historical perspectives reveal the impact of exploration on collective memory, and sustainable innovation shows how we can push boundaries without compromising the Earth. Together, these perspectives redefine exploration and reveal a new interplay between curiosity, responsibility and the drive to push human limits.

Opening remarks by

• Joël Mesot, President, ETH Zurich

Distinguished guests in conversation

• Sascha Quanz, Professor of Exoplanets and Habitability, ETH Zurich
• external page Amanda Bellows, Historian, The New School
• external page Bertrand Piccard, Serial explorer, psychiatrist and clean technology pioneer

Moderation
Chris Luebkeman, Head Strategic Foresight, ETH Zurich