What can happen when artists and scientists look at the stars together? This talk explores how creative and scientific approaches to space have influenced one another throughout history from ancient celestial maps to contemporary collaborations with space agencies.

By examining visual storytelling, space-inspired design, and interdisciplinary practices, we’ll discover how art can make space exploration more accessible, emotional, and innovative. The session highlights how creative thinking enriches scientific work, helps communicate complex ideas, and fosters new ways of imagining the universe.

Yana Karol is a strategic advisor, mentor and scholar with a multidisciplinary background in physics (PhD), art history (BA), and management (MBA). After a postdoctoral appointment at NASA, she held senior roles in the French New Space sector and now consults space and tech companies on strategy, innovation, and business development. She currently serves as Director of Strategic Partnerships at the AstroAid Foundation, which supports innovation in the space and healthcare sectors. Her academic and professional experience bridges scientific research, visual culture, and strategic consulting, with a strong focus on interdisciplinarity, impact, and inclusivity.

yanakarol.com