Registration is now open for the 2026 Europlanet GMAP Winter School, an international winter school dedicated to planetary geology and geological mapping of Solar System bodies, which will take place from 26 to 30 January 2026.

Organised by Europlanet, a non-profit association supporting the advancement of planetary science, the GMAP Winter School builds on the success of previous editions and focuses on the production of planetary geological maps, a key tool for understanding planetary surfaces and supporting future exploration missions.

The 2026 edition is focused on preparing for future human exploration will provide both introductory and practical training on:

• planetary datasets and coordinate reference systems;
• software tools for planetary geological mapping;
• geology and key surface features of Mars, Earth and the Moon;
• feasibility studies for future planetary exploration;
• special emphasis on lava tubes, caves, landing sites and water ice.

The programme combines theoretical lectures, hands-on mapping activities, and thematic seminars. Each day will introduce a planetary body of interest, describe the practical exercises, and guide participants through the individual completion of a small geological mapping task. Dedicated seminar sessions at the end of each day will offer insights, perspectives, and additional expertise on related scientific topics.

Participation formats

The Winter School offers two participation modes, both reserved for Europlanet members:

• Synchronous participation

Application deadline: 21 January 2026
Includes real-time participation during the Winter School (26–30 January), interaction with instructors, and access to lesson recordings.

• Asynchronous participation

Application deadline: 22 February 2026
Designed to accommodate different time zones, allowing participants to follow recorded content and complete the required activities.

All registered participants will have access to the dedicated Streavent platform for Q&A until 28 February 2026. A certificate of attendance will be issued upon submission of the hands-on mapping tasks by 22 March 2026. After the school, all educational materials will remain freely available for self-paced learning (without certification).

Registration and Europlanet membership

Participation requires Europlanet membership. In addition to access to the GMAP Winter School 2026, membership offers a wide range of benefits, including participation in Europlanet programmes such as research visits to facilities, funding opportunities, and mentoring schemes. Discounts are available depending on geographical location and career stage. Participants affiliated with institutions that are already Europlanet members are exempt from additional membership fees.

To apply, candidates must complete the registration form and provide their Europlanet membership details. Successful applicants will receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to access the Winter School via the Streavent platform.

Dedicated to the memory of Riccardo Pozzobon

The 2026 Europlanet GMAP Winter School is dedicated to the memory of Riccardo Pozzobon, a researcher at the Department of Geosciences of the University of Padova and a highly respected planetary geologist, who passed away in September 2025 during a scientific mission on the Mendenhall Glacier (Alaska, USA). Internationally recognised for his work on Martian and Lunar geology, Riccardo’s scientific legacy and passion continue to inspire the themes and spirit of this year’s Winter School.