ISGP2026 @ GSU

The German Sport University Cologne is honoured and happy to host the 45th annual meeting of the International Society for Gravitational Physiology.

The International Society for Gravitational Physiology (ISGP) promotes the exchange and dissemination of scientific knowledge concerning the biological and physiological effects of gravity, including increased or decreased gravity, on living organisms during spaceflight or space exploration. The ISGP's broad scientific scope covers cells, integrated physiological systems, and the behaviour and performance of humans, animals, and plants.

The German Sport Universiyt (GSU) stands alone in Germany as the only university dedicated exclusively to sport and exercise science. This clear focus fosters a unique interdisciplinary environment where complex social challenges are explored through the context of sport and exercise science — ranging from health, biomechanics, and physiology to economics, history, and ethics.

For more than 30 years, the GSU has played a pioneering role in space life science. The Center for Health and Integrative Physiology in Space (CHIPS) is one of three research centres in Germany specialising in space life science, supported and funded by the German Space Agency.

Set in the heart of Cologne — a city where 2,000 years of history meet youthful energy. Explore a variety of museums, shop in unique boutiques, and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife. Cologne is also home to the European Astronaut Centre and is at the forefront of North Rhine-Westphalia’s push into the space industry.

The scope of the 2026 'Science Beyond Earth' meeting offers an opportunity to gaze beyond the current state of space life sciences. How can we, as scientists, provide greater support for space exploration missions? What are the needs and limits of human performance? How can we ensure mission success and safety?  AND: how can our research benefit life on Earth? Exploring extreme environments and expanding our knowledge has always sparked new ideas and improved our lives and societies.
We look forward to seeing you in Cologne to present your latest findings, and we hope you will leave with new and inspiring ideas.

Join us for a truly unique conference with an exceptional work-life balance! You won't want to miss it!