October 28, 2025
- Premiere at Ham Radio: new astronomy exhibition Astro to take place for the first time on June 27, 2026
- Technology, telescopes, and talks: a trade fair blending shopping, technical programs, and networking in Hall B1
- Amateur astronomers, observatories, and manufacturers to celebrate a common passion for exploring the cosmos
Friedrichshafen – When Ham Radio 2026 opens its doors from June 26 to 28, a new star will rise for the first time on the horizon of the highly international Lake Constance borderlands region: Astro will celebrate its premiere in the Messe Friedrichshafen portfolio as a trade fair for astronomy, astrophotography, and modern observational technology. The exhibition for hobby astronomers and technology enthusiasts will be held in Hall B1 on June 27, 2026. Ham Radio can also be visited with a valid ticket. In addition to a standalone lecture program, the Astro flea market will offer visitors a wide range of used equipment to explore. Exhibiting companies will also showcase their latest technical gear.
“We’re delighted to add Astro to our event calendar as another exciting topic. It appeals to a dedicated and tech-savvy community and, given its thematic focus, is a perfect fit for Ham Radio,” says Messe Friedrichshafen CEO Klaus Wellmann. Project Manager Petra Rathgeber stresses the importance of these synergies: “Astronomy and amateur radio share the same passion for technology, precision, and communication – an affinity that was already evident at this year’s Ham Radio. Astro is therefore not only an ideal addition but also opens up new horizons for anyone who not only wants to see the sky but also understand it.”
From solar light to stellar realms
Exhibiting companies, astronomical associations, and institutions will be presenting the latest telescopes, instruments, cameras, filters, and accessories in Hall B1. In addition to a technical lecture and presentation program, visitors can explore a large flea market featuring astronomy equipment – from time-tested classics to cutting-edge high-tech components.
Astro aims to unite education, commerce, and community in a single event. “No trade fair of Astro’s scale currently exists in the German-speaking region. It will serve as a platform bringing together commercial exhibitors, observatories, and associations to vividly showcase and explore topics such as remote optics, celestial observation, astronomy education, astro‑tourism, and all other astronomy subject areas across a broad range of offerings,” says Berthold Wassmuth, First Chair of the Bodensee Astronomical Association. Professionals will get their money’s worth at Astro, with expert lectures and workshops providing opportunities to exchange ideas about current developments and deepen one’s own knowledge. The open-air exhibition grounds offer many possibilities, such as live solar observations from aboard airplanes, zeppelins, and other platforms, which could attract a wide range of visitors. “Related preparations are already in full swing,” explains Berthold Wassmuth.
At the same time, astronomy is to be made deliberately accessible and hands-on to attract young visitors to the fair and engage new audiences. A particular focus is interdisciplinary exchange with the amateur radio community, whose experimental drive and technological enthusiasm closely parallel those of sky observers. This supporting program is designed to appeal equally to newcomers and experienced professionals.
Tickets and opening hours
Astro will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, and will open its doors to the public from 9 am to 6 pm. The Astro day ticket also grants access to the Ham Radio fair on Saturday. Admission prices are expected to be announced in early 2026. Further information is available at https://www.hamradio-friedrichshafen.de/
Press contact:
Mona Dimitrow, Manager of Media Relations
Tel.: +49 7541 708-328
E-mail: mona.dimitrow@messe-fn.de
About Astro
Astro is a new trade fair focused on astronomy, astrophotography, and modern observation technology, expanding the range of topics covered by Ham Radio. Exhibiting companies, observatories, and institutions will showcase a wide range of telescopes, instruments, cameras, filters, and accessories in Friedrichshafen. Expert lectures, workshops, and a flea market for astronomy supplies will round out the Astro exhibition, providing a platform for knowledge transfer, exchange, and shopping.
About Ham Radio
Europe’s largest amateur radio exhibition offers a comprehensive range of products and educational opportunities related to radio technology, providing a platform for radio enthusiasts worldwide to connect and share ideas. What sets Ham Radio apart is its unique mix of commercial exhibitors, globally networked associations, and Europe’s largest radio flea market. Expert talks, a diverse supporting program organized by the event’s non-commercial partner, the German Amateur Radio Club (DARC), activities for children and young people, live radio contacts, various license exams, the job fair, and teacher-training sessions round out the extensive range of offerings.
About Messe Friedrichshafen
Messe Friedrichshafen GmbH is one of Germany’s leading trade fair companies and is located at the scenic meeting point of four countries along the shores of Lake Constance. Founded in 1950 to bolster the region’s economy, it has made a name for itself worldwide as an organizer and marketer of leisure and trade exhibitions. Its extensive portfolio includes congresses, corporate and sporting events, television productions, and live concerts. Each year, Messe Friedrichshafen attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors and thousands of exhibiting companies from more than 100 countries to Lake Constance. With a total of 87,500 m² of exhibition space, the venue features twelve exhibition halls, two multifunctional foyers, and two outdoor areas in the inner courtyard measuring 15,500 m². Additionally, the Static Display area spans 20,000 m² and provides exceptional opportunities for engaging and dynamic trade fair experiences. The exhibition grounds, which are compact in design and include the Fair Lake adjacent to the airport as well as halls equipped with hangar doors, can accommodate a wide range of possible uses.
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