Life on Mars? Week of Inspiration

An intriguing question: is life on Mars possible? To answer that, you first need to look at how life originates. How did it start on our own planet, Earth? Prof Dr Inge Loes ten Kate is astrobiologist and conducts research into the origin and evolution of life. She has been fascinated by space from a young age and spent five years working at NASA, where she was involved in the Curiosity Rover, which analysed soil samples on Mars. This led, in 2018, to the discovery of organic molecules that had been floating around there 3.5 billion years ago. These molecules are essential for life to thrive. What is the current state of research into life on Mars? Ten Kate questions the search strategy: aren't we overlooking something? Ten Kate is one of the few people to have an asteroid named after her.

Moderator: Prof Dr Ir Saskia Lindhoud (S&T)

Free entry, no reservations required.

Week of Inspiration 2026

In November the University of Twente will celebrate its 65th anniversary. During the week before the Dies Natalis the UT treats you to a programme packed with inspiration and fun. Come and join with your friends and listen to speakers of national and international fame. Everybody is welcome at these free and sustainable events: students, non-students, people from the region and beyond! 

In cooperation with Ockham and Honours Programme.

For questions: