2025 ESSENZ Astrobiology Conference – Day 2

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Join ESSENZ at Mount Maunganui College for a special day dedicated to Earth and Space Sciences teachers, celebrating ten years of astrobiology in Aotearoa. Hear from NASA and BMSIS scientists, explore how to bring the Universe into your classroom, and connect with fellow educators passionate about space science.
Mt Maunganui College, 565 Maunganui Road, Mount Maunganui 3116
September 23, 2025
This event is organised by
Earth and Space Science Educators of New Zealand ESSENZ

In celebration of Ten Years of Astrobiology in Aotearoa, we are thrilled to support a dedicated day for Earth and Space Sciences Educators of New Zealand (ESSE-NZ) members and all kaiako passionate about bringing the cosmos into the classroom.

If you are a member of ESSENZ, join us at Mount Maunganui College for a full-day programme of talks and discussion on astrobiology — the science that asks the biggest questions about life, the Universe, and everything in between.

You’ll hear from:

  • Dr. Mitch Schulte – Mars Program Scientist, NASA Headquarters
  • Sarah Marcotte – Science Communicator, NASA JPL
  • Dr. Sanjoy Som & Dr. Graham Lau – Blue Marble Space Institute of Science
  • Haritina Mogoșanu, Sam Leske and Prof. Kathy Campbell – New Zealand Astrobiology Network

Together, we’ll explore:

  • The science behind the origins and future of life
  • How to teach planetary systems and habitability
  • Real-world resources you can bring back to the classroom
  • The power of astrobiology to inspire curiosity, agency, and global citizenship

This event is part of the nationwide Spaceward Bound New Zealand programme and marks a milestone in NZ’s contribution to global astrobiology education and research.


With support from

This event is made possible through the generous support of the U.S. Embassy in New Zealand under the 150 Years of U.S.–New Zealand Scientific Collaboration programme.

Special thanks to Mount Maunganui College for hosting this day of discovery and professional connection.

Thank you to our fantastic supporters

Also, check out our educational programme

See you at the

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Check out our speakers for this event

Sam Leske
NZAN
Sarah Marcotte
JPL
Dr Sanjoy Som
BMSIS
Dr Mitch Schulte
NASA
Hari Mogoșanu
NZAN, BMSIS
Dr Graham Lau - the Cosmobiologist
BMSIS

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