1996 Asteroid Solvay

1996: Discovery of the asteroid (7537) Solvay by the Belgian astronomer Eric Elst. Named in honour of Ernest Solvay, this celestial body symbolically links the great patron of Belgian science to the permanent inventory of the solar system.

Image credits : Unknown author, ca. 1900

17-04-2026

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1970 Apollo 13 - 2006 Venus Express

1970: The launch of NASA's third lunar mission turns into a technological nightmare following the explosion of an oxygen tank. Exploration gives way to an unprecedented race against time. By using the Lunar Module as an improvised lifeboat, the engineers and crew achieved the most spectacular rescue of the space age, transforming a looming disaster into a triumph of human will.

2006: Belgian expertise conquers the "Evening Star". The Venus Express probe begins its orbital mission. On board, the SOIR instrument—designed and operated by the Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy (BIRA-IASB)—is poised to unlock the secrets of the Venusian atmosphere. A major achievement for the researchers of the Uccle plateau.

Image credits : nasa.gov

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1996 Asteroid Solvay

1970 Apollo 13 - 2006 Venus Express

Planetarium

Royal Observatory of Belgium

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