Dedicated to celebrating the wonders of the ocean, marine science, and conservation, Ocean Days returned for its third edition on 23–24 May 2026 at the Luxembourg Science Center in Differdange. The event was organised by the Luxembourg Science Center in collaboration with ESERO Luxembourg and Odyssea a.s.b.l., with co-financing from the Luxembourg National Research Fund (FNR).
This year’s programme brought the ocean closer to home through a diverse range of interactive workshops, engaging talks, and immersive experiences. In partnership with Polar.lu, the Naturmusée, Good Fish Guide Benelux a.s.b.l., FLASSA asbl, the Administration de la Gestion de l’Eau, and the Hëllef fir d’Natur Foundation, visitors of all ages were invited to discover marine and freshwater ecosystems and learn about current conservation challenges.
Among the highlights were inspiring presentations on humpback whales by Odyssea founding member Dr Pierre Gallego, underwater photography by Steven Weinberg, and freshwater mussels by Stefan Fernandes. These talks provided fascinating insights into the diversity of aquatic life and the importance of protecting these ecosystems.
Demonstrating that responsible seafood consumption can be both accessible and enjoyable, Good Fish Guide Benelux asbl joined the event with its food truck, offering visitors the opportunity to sample sustainably sourced seafood while learning how to make environmentally responsible choices when purchasing fish products.
At the Odyssea stand, visitors discovered how researchers use photo-identification techniques to recognise individual whales based on unique natural markings. Participants were challenged to match humpback whale flukes, fin whale chevrons, and blue whale pigmentation patterns to catalogued individuals from the Mingan Island Cetacean Study in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, where Odyssea researcher Dr Anna Schleimer conducted part of her research on fin whales. Through this hands-on activity, visitors gained insight into the methods scientists use to monitor whale populations and support their conservation.
Odyssea extends its sincere thanks to all the volunteers who contributed to the success of the event, especially Hinatea, Caroline, Julie, and Anna. We also warmly thank the entire Luxembourg Science Center team for their support, enthusiasm, and commitment in making this third edition of Ocean Days such a memorable success.
