The 2026 Lange Nacht der Forschung attracted large crowds to Science City Itzling at Salzburg Research, where visitors could experience current research first-hand. As both the regional coordinator and an exhibitor, Salzburg Research played a pivotal role in shaping one of the largest venues.

Official opening ceremony attended by state officials and city leaders

The 2026 Lange Nacht der Forschung in Salzburg began with a pre-opening event at Salzburg Research. State Minister for Science Daniela Gutschi and Mayor Bernhard Auinger then officially opened the event at Science City Itzling. Salzburg Research Forschungsgesellschaft invited partners and guests to take a first look at selected research stations and current projects.

Making research accessible and engaging for 7,500 visitors

The 2026 Lange Nacht der Forschung boasted a record-breaking program: With more than 700 researchers staffing 163 stations across ten locations in the State of Salzburg, the event attracted around 7,500 visitors. Visitors were able to gain direct access to current issues in technology, health, mobility, digitalization, and society through interactive formats. As the regional coordinator, Salzburg Research was responsible for the organizational implementation within the state, making a significant contribution to raising the profile of research.

Ten stations showcased hands-on research

Salzburg Research presented a wide range of research topics and focused on interactive formats:

The range of applications spanned sensor technology for winter sports, breath analysis for runners, and real-time information for daily commuters. Visitors could try out a research bicycle designed to measure passing distances, learn about new approaches to safe cycling infrastructure, and share their own ideas for future mobility.

Other exhibits showcased sustainable logistics solutions for the final delivery stage, the use of social robots in everyday life, and innovative tools for energy communities. The issue of crisis resilience was also addressed, with a focus on the use of satellite communications to restore power after a blackout.

You can find these and many more photos here: fotos.salzburgresearch.at

Science City Itzling as a central hub

Salzburg Research offered a diverse program for all age groups together with partner organizations. The following organizations also participated in the event:

• MINT:labs Science City Itzling (Salzburg Research & Paris Lodron University of Salzburg)
• MINT Salzburg
• Privatuniversität Schloss Seeburg
• HTBLuVA Salzburg
• 4D Aerospace Research and Simulation GmbH
• Ludwig Boltzmann Institut

With 32 stations in total, Science City Itzling was the second-largest venue for the Lange Nacht der Forschung in Salzburg and attracted many visitors.

Contribution to sustainable and forward-looking research

The event was organized as a green event once again, emphasizing climate-friendly transport by providing free public transit tickets. The event impressively demonstrated how research in Salzburg contributes to innovation, improving quality of life and promoting sustainable development.

Lange Nacht der Forschung is an initiative of the federal ministries BMFWF, BMIMI, and BMWET, run in partnership with the federal states. In Salzburg, the event is supported by the State and City of Salzburg, with regional coordination handled by Salzburg Research Forschungsgesellschaft.

We look forward to Lange Nacht der Forschung in 2028!