We are delighted to introduce Claire Nichols as the 2026 Johannes Geiss Fellow, whose research explores planetary magnetism and what it can tell us about the deep interiors, atmospheres, and habitability of planets across our solar system and beyond. Based at the University of Oxford, Claire combines a background in Earth Sciences with a fascination for meteorites, the Moon, and the magnetic histories of planets large and small. In this interview, she reflects on her path into space science, explains why invisible magnetic fields matter so much, and shares what she is most excited about during her upcoming stay at ISSI in Bern—alongside her enthusiasm for mountains, chocolate, and the occasional punting mishap.
When the International Space Science Institute (ISSI) hosted its very first workshop in 1995, cross-disciplinary international collaboration was far less commonplace. Yet, heliospheric science was already thriving, and among the participants was a young scientist named Eberhard Möbius. Nearly three decades later, as ISSI hosts the workshop “Multi-Spacecraft Observations and their Importance for Understanding Particle Dynamics in the Inner Heliosphere”, Möbius is back — this time alongside Dr Emma Davies, a first-time ISSI participant representing the next generation of space scientists.
Their shared presence offers a natural bridge between the past and the future of space science. It is a living example of how careers, ideas, and collaborations evolve shaped by the ISSI ecosystem.
ISSI is deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Roger-Maurice Bonnet, ISSI Honorary Director and former Executive Director of the International Space Science Institute.
Roger-Maurice Bonnet was a cherished member of the ISSI community and was a scientist of exceptional vision and sharp mind.
He leaves behind a lasting legacy of scientific leadership and intellectual generosity. His bright presence will be deeply missed by colleagues, collaborators, and friends around the world.
The directors and staff express their deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.
As ISSI continues to strengthen its scientific activities and enable yours, we are delighted to welcome Dr Sabina Răducan to the team as our new Science Programme Manager. Following in the footsteps of her predecessor, Dr Raphael Marschall, Sabina brings an energetic blend of planetary science expertise, international experience, and a fondness for small Solar System bodies…especially those beginning with the letter D.
To help the ISSI community get to know her better, we sat down for a light conversation about her work, her inspirations, and her favourite things about life in Switzerland.
Bern’s Astronomy on Tap event sponsored for the first time by ISSI lit up the Stellwerk on November 18, 2025, and not just because nearly 100 people packed into the venue beneath the Grosse Schanze. With every seat filled and glasses raised, the atmosphere was primed for an evening where cutting-edge space science met tasty drinks and great company.
At ISSI, we are used to navigating the complexities of the cosmos — gravity waves, solar cycles, comet tails… But by financially supporting our scientific visitors during their stay here in Bern, we need to also keep a keen, telescopic eye on the balance sheets of our Universe. We will be able to keep doing that even better thanks to the newest member of our orbit: Sesil Ayri, our new Accountant!
If you’ve recently had a coffee in ISSI’s common area and felt the Moon watching you—or spotted an alien contemplating a galaxy—you’re not imagining things. You’ve encountered the latest addition to our institute: a stunning, wall-sized space science mural, hand-painted by our very own C. Baier and Fabio Crameri.
🚀🎓 Big cheers and cosmic congratulations to our former Intern Joana C. Carvalho for graduating from Università di Trento with a post-grad in Science Communication! 🌍🪐✨
ISSI is thrilled to welcome Dr. Raphael Marschall as our new Science Programme Manager—and he’s already orbiting smoothly into his new role!
Thirty years ago, the dream of a visionary scientist came true. A dream of a very special place where science was the focus, a welcoming international institute where the only language spoken was science, a centre of excellence uniting the scientific community under the same big sky that humanity has looked up to for centuries.
ISSI is not only a hub of space science but also a warm, welcoming environment where international collaboration thrives. Today, we introduce our three stellar faces that guide you with your hotel room bookings and expense claims and other admin and logistics before, during, and after your research stay here in Bern: C. Baier, Xeila Monteagudo, and Dominique Fuchs.
The world of astronomy assembled in South Africa🇿🇦, for the first time.
ISSI was there, too.
