The Starmus Festival returns to the island of La Palma as “a global reference stage for science, continuing to work toward restoring the economic and social stability it had before the Tajogaite volcano eruption in 2021,” the Cabildo announced in a press release. This idea was emphasized by the president of the Cabildo, Sergio Rodríguez, during the presentation of the project on Wednesday, February 12, at the Teatro Circo de Marte.
The event was also attended by the director and co-founder of the festival, Garik Israelian, as well as the director of the Canary Islands Agency for Research, Innovation, and the Information Society (ACIISI), Javier Franco Hormiga, along with representatives from the island’s government and other public administrations. Their presence highlighted the significance of this project returning to La Palma at such a crucial time.
The president of the Cabildo de La Palma, Sergio Rodríguez, stated that this is an event that “not only fills us with pride but also positions our island as a global reference in the scientific and cultural spheres. Starmus is not just a gathering of scientists and astronauts—it is a bridge that connects knowledge with art and music. It is a unique opportunity to inspire new generations and spark scientific vocations.”
“The Starmus Festival is also an economic driver for our island. The arrival of scientists, artists, and tourists enhances La Palma’s positioning with immeasurable yet tangible value, reflected in its impact on the hotel, restaurant, and service sectors,” added the island’s president. He highlighted that this event “contributes to promoting La Palma as a high-quality tourist destination, attracting investment and creating jobs. It is a unique opportunity to showcase the beauty of our island and the warmth of our people to the world.”
“But the impact of Starmus goes beyond the economic. This festival strengthens our identity as a community, unites us around a common goal, and inspires us to reach new heights,” said Sergio Rodríguez.
Meanwhile, the festival’s director, Garik Israelian, expressed his gratitude to the Cabildo de La Palma and the Government of the Canary Islands for their support of the festival. He reminded attendees that Starmus “was born in La Palma 20 years ago” and, although the original dream that inspired it has not yet fully materialized, “we continue working to make it happen.” For him, “the most important thing is the journey and continuing to spark a transformation for the island.”
He emphasized Starmus’s ability to drive change, stating, “We want Starmus to have the power to make a difference, and we are confident that we will achieve this.” He also underlined the festival’s special connection with La Palma, affirming, “Starmus owes a lot to La Palma, and we would love to give back to the island.”
Israelian noted that while various initiatives have taken place over the years, “now, with the entire festival being held on the island, we are going to achieve something truly remarkable.” He also highlighted the enthusiasm of the participants, saying, “The speakers are eager to come to La Palma and experience this paradise, which is also the island of the stars.”
Finally, Javier Franco Hormiga, director of the Canary Islands Agency for Research, Innovation, and the Information Society (ACIISI), reaffirmed the Government of the Canary Islands’ commitment to the economic development of the archipelago, particularly La Palma. “The Government of the Canary Islands aims to foster and strengthen the island’s economy, especially in a place like La Palma, which has faced such challenges,” he stated.
He also emphasized the importance of institutional support for initiatives like this, stating, “The government’s efforts to maintain this initiative highlight its commitment to fostering all areas of expertise.”
In his speech, he stressed the role of culture as a driver of development and social cohesion, underscoring the value of “merging art and music with the local community to enhance and celebrate the excellence of the Canary Islands, and in particular, La Palma.”
The event began with a screening of the documentary Starmus VI, followed by a presentation of the program structure that Starmus La Palma will unfold across the island, led by the Starmus team.
To conclude the event, Efecto Pasillo closed the evening with an acoustic showcase. The popular Canarian band is one of the headlining acts for Starmus La Palma’s spectacular Sonic Universe concert. Additionally, they serve as ambassadors for the festival’s educational project, Interscholar, which is led by renowned science communicator Javier Santaolalla and includes collaboration with the Jane Goodall Institute and acclaimed singer-songwriter Jorge Drexler.
Starmus La Palma: A Key Project for the Island’s Recovery
Under the theme “The Island of the Stars,” Starmus La Palma will focus on the challenges the island faces in protecting its skies, from light pollution to space debris.
Aiming to contribute to La Palma’s recovery following the 2021 eruption, the event’s program will take place in various locations, including Santa Cruz de La Palma, Los Llanos de Aridane, and Puerto de Tazacorte. The festival will feature a four-day cycle of keynote lectures, two science fairs open to the public (Starmus Camps), and three major concerts: the Opening Concert, the spectacular Sonic Universe, and Classical Night.
Projects That Make Up the New Edition of Starmus La Palma
Starmus La Palma will offer an intensive program of lectures featuring over 45 speakers, including Nobel Prize winners, legendary astronauts, world-renowned scientists, experts in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, and some of the most iconic and inspiring figures of our time, including the esteemed Jane Goodall.
The main lectures will take place in Puerto Naos on April 25, 26, and 28, from 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM. On April 26, the Sonic Universe concert will be held at the Puerto de Tazacorte, headlined by the Starmus All Stars band with special guest Glenn Hughes. The lineup features rock legends such as guitarist Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal (formerly of Guns N’ Roses), keyboardist Derek Sherinian (KISS), drummer Vinny Appice, bassist Tony Franklin, and vocalist Dino Jelusick. Additional performers include singer-songwriter Jorge Drexler, Efecto Pasillo, Flangr, Dr. Chrispyn, and Las Knarias.