Antwerp is turning into an open-air space exhibition this autumn, with a free 4.5 km walking route taking visitors from the first artificial satellite to future missions to the Moon and Mars. The Space Walk runs from 24 October to 22 November 2026, with ten stops exploring key moments in space exploration, Belgian contributions to the space industry and the links between space and art. The walk takes around three hours to complete.
One of the stops is Panamarenkoplein in the Nieuw Zuid neighbourhood, where visitors can discover the LUVMI-X Rover, a compact lunar robot developed under the leadership of Belgian company Space Applications Services. The installation focuses on the Artemis programme, through which NASA and its international partners aim to return astronauts to the Moon and prepare for longer stays and, eventually, crewed missions to Mars.
A Belgian robot designed for the Moon
The LUVMI-X Rover is designed to carry scientific instruments across the lunar surface and support research into substances such as water. Its ability to explore difficult-to-reach areas could help scientists gather information before astronauts venture into them.
The installation illustrates the role robotic vehicles could play in future lunar exploration, working alongside astronauts to investigate the terrain and conduct scientific experiments.
The Artemis programme envisages more than a return to the Moon. It aims to establish a sustained human presence, explore previously unvisited areas and test technologies that could support future journeys to Mars.
From Sputnik to the International Space Station
The route traces the development of space exploration through a series of installations at locations around Antwerp. Highlights include a replica of Sputnik, the first artificial satellite, at the Zand; a lunar rover at Sint-Michielskaai; and a space telescope at Gerlachekaai.
Visitors can also see the spacesuit of Belgian astronaut Frank De Winne at Ledeganckkaai. Art features in the itinerary too, with a stop dedicated to ‘Fallen Astronaut‘ by Belgian artist Paul Van Hoeydonck at the Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp (M HKA).
Together, the ten stops explore how space exploration has transformed scientific knowledge and technology, while looking ahead to future discoveries.
The Space Walk runs from 24 October to 22 November 2026. The route and further details are available on the official website.