The Escite annual conference is the "number one" meeting place for science centre professionals in Europe.

The Ecsite Annual Conference 2006 was held from the 8 to 10 June 2006, and was hosted by Technopolis, the Flemish Science Centre in Mechelen, Belgium.

The Annual Conference 2006 brought together 713 delegates from 40 countries.

Chief Executives, Explainers and other major staff of European science centres and museums took part in 71 sessions during the three days, together with Researchers, Students, Journalists, Government representatives and private companies.

The three main areas that the Ecsite AC 06 covered where:

1. Trends and challenges in cutting edge research and technological development
2. Science centres: Children only?
3. What are they really learning?

The latest trends and new models in science communication were explored , new travelling exhibitions were presented, exhibitions techniques were shared, talks on enhancing the visitor experience were given.

Delegates participated in workshops , networked and worked on European projects, and found out the latest trends at the market at the Business Bistro , the market place of the conference. They enjoyed a nocturne in Technopolis, the Flemish science centre and had the chance to network with other professionals during a rich social programme among glasses of Belgian beer and real diamonds!

For more info on Mechelen, please visit www.meetinginmechelen.be