Programme EPSC 2026

The 17th-century multi-talented Christiaan Huygens was born, lived, and died in the same neighbourhood where EPSC'26 takes place. Yet in The Hague itself, you will look in vain for traces of this remarkable scientist, who discovered, among many other things, Saturn's moon Titan, explained the nature of Saturn's rings, invented the pendulum clock that enabled accurate astronomical observations, and was the first physicist to describe light as a wave.

Just a few kilometres away, in the town of Voorburg, lies Hofwijck, the modest estate of the Huygens family. He spent many summers there as a child, later carried out astronomical observations and developed groundbreaking inventions. In the final years of his life Christiaan lived and worked at Hofwijck.

During EPSC'26, you are invited to step into that world of Christiaan Huygens with a visit to Hofwijck and its beautiful historic garden. On Tuesday, 8 September, Hofwijck will host a special programme exclusively for EPSC participants. Discover the home where Huygens lived and worked, and learn more about his life, his scientific achievements, and his enduring legacy.

The programme includes a special talk by planetary scientist Daphne Stam, who will bring Huygens' story to life in the very place where so much of it unfolded. Whether you are fascinated by astronomy, history, or both, this is a unique opportunity to experience the world of one of the Netherlands' greatest scientists.

Registration

Registration is required. You can book your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.nl/e/christiaan-huygens-home-at-hofwijck-tickets-1993920982333?aff=oddtdtcreator

Please note that, due to the intimate size of the Hofwijck estate, the number of tickets for this exclusive event is limited. Be sure to reserve your ticket in time. The event is also open to non-EPSC participants, so feel free to invite a plus-one.

Programme

The special Hofwijck programme will take place on Tuesday, 8 September, with four identical sessions throughout the afternoon and evening. You can join at one of the following start times:

• 15:30

• 16:30

• 19:30

• 20:30

Each session begins with a short introduction to Hofwijck by Tim Zeedijk, director of the Huygens Museum, followed by a talk by planetary scientist Daphne Stam. Afterwards, you are invited to explore the museum and its beautiful gardens at your own pace and enjoy a drink in the authentic 17th-century kitchen.

Practical information

Diner
There are several restaurants near Hofwijck, in the historic centre of Voorburg, so it is easy to combine your visit with a meal.

How to get there
Hofwijck (address: Westeinde 2A, Voorburg) lays directly besides trainstation Voorburg. In only 18 minutes you can get from Amare to Hofwijck with public transport. Plan your journey via 9292.nl

Coming by car? There is ample parking available at Stationsplein and beneath the railway viaduct. You can park there for up to two hours using a parking disc (blue zone). After 18:00, there is no time limit.