Space Exploration

Hi everyone! With good weather present, let’s get together for a picnic-themed meetup! In the spirit of BYO things, feel free to join with food, drinks, blankets to lie down on, games, or just good vibes. If the weather allows and people are up for it, there’s always the possibility of follow-up drinks later that day. Exact Location to meet: Dropped pin https://maps.app.goo.gl/6SbDVFQJdP1WWVdG8 More tips on how to find the group will follow in the comments on the day of the meetup. Hope to see you there! :) In case of bad (NL) weather, the Picnic might be moved to another day.

* We **start at 11:15** at Raadhuisplein 1, 3951 XT Maarn https://maps.app.goo.gl/WogeofsFNuDyBgrN9 * Length: \~16.6 km (4 - 5 hr hiking) * What to bring: lunch, water, snack. * For whom: As always, sporty folks that like to combine social event with being active in nature. **Getting there by Train:** * To train station: Maarn https://maps.app.goo.gl/UkHaTRXZZW9zG3dn9 **Getting there by Car:** * Parking in the streets close to: Raadhuisplein 1, 3951 XT Maarn https://maps.app.goo.gl/WogeofsFNuDyBgrN9 **Note:** * Please **pay a small fee (3 euro)** to help us cover the (increased) yearly Meetup contribution of 240 euro. We'll ask you to pay before the start of the hike (can be on the day itself). No refunds, but in the unlikely event that hike would be cancelled and you already paid, you don't need to pay for your next hike. Thank you so much! Use the **safe link** here: https://betaalverzoek.rabobank.nl/betaalverzoek/?id=cqlYWv_MTpSjp2VkROXWhA * Keep in mind that the hike can be canceled when the weather is very bad (**always check the event before you go**). * If you RSVP 'yes' we expect you to show-up. Please do not cancel less than 24 hours before the hike. **No-shows** will lead to your removal from the group. Thanks for the understanding. * By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves.

**Zondag 10 mei presenteert OPA een boekpresentatie voor Dingen doen denken, het nieuwe boek van auteur Jeroen van den Eijnde en ontwerper Jannie Guo.** Dingen doen denken bevat teksten die Van den Eijnde schreef tussen 1994 en 2025, van persoonlijke observaties tot bijdragen aan vak en publieksboeken over design en ontwerpend onderzoek. Kunstenaar en ontwerper Jannie Guo heeft het boek vormgegeven. Beiden verzorgen een presentatie met aandacht voor de teksten van Jeroen en het ontwerp van Jannie. Walter Jansen van Het Colofon gaat met hen in gesprek. Graag aanmelden via info@hetcolofon.nl met de vermelding van het aantal personen.

Join us for a relaxed and friendly matcha tasting meetup. I’ll bring matcha for everyone to try, and you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks, including alcohol if you like. This is a casual event for meeting new people, enjoying Japanese tea culture, and spending a cozy afternoon together. Beginners are very welcome. Free to join.

Tickets may be purchased here: https://hipsy.nl/event/202332-authentic-dating-45-tot-65-jaar After the huge success and sold-out editions our last Authentic Dating events, we're back with a new edition! And this time a 45+ event <3! What to expect We offer playful ways of interacting, partly with a soft, sensory approach and partly through meditative presence. You’ll skip the superficial small talk and learn how to connect in an open, honest, and playful way. During this event, we combine dating with light, conscious touch and body-based exercises. You’ll learn to better feel and communicate your desires and boundaries, while discovering whether there’s a genuine connection. Throughout the afternoon, you’ll move through a series of carefully guided encounters. These experiences help you show up as your true self, communicate openly, and explore different forms of connection. During this gathering, we use accessible, playful, and partly body-oriented exercises to create connection — with yourself and with others. We alternate between working with the whole group and in smaller groups, allowing space for both depth and lightness. We will also offer dating opportunities with 1 on 1 exercises. By the end of the day, you’ll go home feeling connected, inspired, and equipped with practical tools you can apply in your everyday (dating) life. Afterwards, participants will have gotten to know each other in an open, playful, and authentic way, with meaningful — and possibly romantic — connections emerging. Practicalities Date: Sunday, May 10th, 2026 Time: doors open at 12:45, start 13:00 (we start on time; doors close shortly after) Participants: max. 26 Age: 45–65 years Dress code: festive and authentic — dress as you would for a fun date or special occasion. Health: if you’re not feeling well, please stay home out of care for yourself and others. Inclusivity: everyone is welcome, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. Good to know - The afternoon is guided in a safe and respectful setting - You always choose who you want to do exercises with - You can set your boundaries at any time - We facilitate the experience but do not actively matchmake - The main language is Dutch, but you’re welcome to speak English during exercises if preferred - Snacks and drinks are provided (vegan-friendly)

One final at a time!

**☃️ Weekly Anime Night - Winter Season ☃️** Your friendly neighbourhood anime club is there to get you through those cold days. We continuing with the season of **Fate/strange Fake!** 📅 **Event Series Details** **Dates: May 10th** **Time: 19:00–21:00** **Location:** Buurtcentrum De Speler, Thorbeckelaan 18, 3551 BR, Utrecht 🎬 **What’s the Plan This Week?** 1. Before we start watching, enjoy chats with other joiners, meet new people and get comfortable to start the show! 2. **Fate/strange Fake - episode 5** 3. Break – Grab a drink, chat, and stretch those legs. 4. **Fate/strange Fake - episode 6** 5. Break – Grab a drink, chat, and stretch those legs. 6. **Fate/strange Fake - episode 7** 7. Closing & Hangout – Let’s talk reactions, highlights, opinions, hot takes, and everything in between! **🎒 What Should You Bring?** Your favorite snacks and drinks (not provided) Your love for anime Friends, or just your awesome self – all are welcome! 🎟️ **Free & Open to All!** This is a non-commercial, community-driven event created by fans, for fans. Whether you’re new to anime or a seasoned otaku, there’s a seat on the couch for you. 🎌 **About Utrecht Anime Club** U.A.C. is an ever-growing group of collaborative and diverse people. Our goal is to bring people together from all across Utrecht (and beyond!), to create cozy and inclusive events in which we share our love of anime. 🔍 **Questions?** Drop them in the event chat – we’re happy to help! Come for the anime, stay for the laughs, finale vibes, and great people. See you there! ✨🎥🍿

Come and join us for an evening of Buddhist meditation with like-minded people. The doors open at 7:00 PM, and meditation begins promptly at 7:15 PM. The meditation will last between 30 to 40 minutes, followed by tea and biscuits for anyone who would like to stay and chat. On some evenings, there will also be a short Dharma talk to provide some Buddhist context. The meditation space is down at the canal. To get there, you can take the stairs down. The meditation is offered on a donation basis. See our [website](https://utrechtbuddhistcentre.nl/) for more information.

**We have limited space at the café, so if you've RSVPd and can't make it, please cancel as early as possible so another person can join!** Join in for a morning of crafting & chatting over a drink. Just bring your own project and payment for drinks. Meet fellow crafting enthusiasts, whether it's knitting, crocheting, stitching, origami, or something more unique! We talk about our projects, exchange tipps, but also just get to know each other and enjoy a relaxed Sunday morning in good company. We now also have a WhatsApp group, where we want to organise get-togethers and other events. Ask one of the organisers at the next Meetup you join for more information and access.

## Love is in the air…! After the crazy success of our first event, we're back with more connection games! This time, the games will be much shorter (15-20 mins each) to allow for easier rotation. For those who're new here, Affinitee hosts slow dating events focused on discovering relationships built on compatibility over superficiality! **No more swiping, skip the bad dates!** ### *This is how it works:* 1\. Before you arrive at the meetup\, you fill in a fun 5\-10 minute questionnaire before registration below \(if you haven't already\)\. We explore different aspects of relationship compatibility using this questionnaire\. To make use of the pre-matching facility, we recommend registering on the website as well. You may sign up here https://affinitee.eu/au-event-3 2\. A match will be automatically assigned \(if available\)\, based on your given criteria \(age range\, children\, location etc\.\) as well as the overall compatibility score based on your questionnaire answers\. 3\. At the event\, you will be able to try out a multitude of board/card games that are specifically chosen to explore various aspects of relationship compatibility \(moral values\, decision making etc\.\)\. 4\. After each game\, you can choose to switch partners\, or continue with the same\, based on input from either parties\. 5\. At the end of the event\, IF you did indeed feel a spark with someone at the event \(and it is reciprocated\)\, we help you arrange a date with them\. You do not even have to exchange contacts\! **[!!IMPORTANT!!]** We recommend signing up through our website to guarantee a match as early as possible. But of course, even if no match is assigned to you due to late registration or gender imbalance, a majority of the games are still played as groups! *So nobody gets left out and everyone has a chance to meet and match with other singles.* We believe in conscious, compatibility based matchmaking. Don't waste your time dating the wrong people!

**"Kingfisher in Watercolours"** Join us for a watercolour workshop inspired by the dazzling colours and graceful presence of one of nature’s most striking birds. With an intimate group of just **five participants**, you will receive personal guidance and leave with your own vibrant artwork and a few beautiful memories. Whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or already experienced, this is a relaxed and welcoming space where we paint, chat, and enjoy the process together. 🗓 **Date:** May 10th, 11 am – 2 pm 💶 **Price:** €75 (€60 with a €15 discount using code “SAVE15”) 🎟 **Early Bird:** Two early bird spots available 📍 **Location:** Barkasstraat 33, Schepenbuurt – Utrecht 🎨 **What to Expect:** * All-inclusive artist-grade watercolour materials * Step-by-step guidance to paint a vibrant kingfisher * A cozy, supportive space for all skill levels * Coffee and tea included * Limited to 5 spots for a personalized experience * Free street parking 📌 **RSVP now to secure your spot:** [https://eventix.shop/jwj79yxy](https://eventix.shop/jwj79yxy) For any questions, email us at **poojavstudio@gmail.com** With the colours of nature and creativity, **Team RangArt** https://www.instagram.com/rangartbypooja/

Let's meet up for a round of beers and snacks as usual. Starts at 5pm but of course you can join later if you want. If you're new to the place, check for the left corner (with the couches) when you enter. See you soon! ;)

Join us for some focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in your area. When you show up, say hello to everyone, grab a drink, and get your writing tools ready. Once you’re all settled, take some time to chat with your fellow writers. Once everyone’s arrived, I will lead quick introductions and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session. Afterward, we’ll have time to chat and get to know each other. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers. If you don’t have time to stick around, no worries! **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://www.shutupwrite.com). **Other Important Details:** WiFi name/password: [PLEASE INCLUDE DETAILS] Travel / Parking info: [PLEASE INCLUDE DETAILS]

Event planned for Sunday near the Diemen Station.

Members of the public are invited to view the wonders of the universe through the telescopes of NOVAC volunteers at the Smithsonian's Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA. You do not need to be a member of the club or own any astronomical equipment to attend. Telescopes will be provided by the Smithsonian and pre-approved members of the NOVAC. No other personal telescopes are permitted at the event. The event will take place on the bus parking lot of the museum. **Please park your vehicle at the south end of the main visitors lot and follow signs and red lights to the observing site. As a reminder, parking during the event is free.** Have a cosmic question? One of NOVAC's astronomers or museum staff will be happy to help you. As the sky gets dark, be prepared to enjoy the wonders of the night sky! Don't forget to dress warmly. Please check the weather forecast. For lighting, cover a flashlight in red cellophane (the darker the better). Bring along water to keep hydrated. Note: This outdoor event is weather-dependent and may be cancelled because of significant cloud cover or precipitation.

256 pages [Technology] • Paperback • Hardcover • Kindle • Audiobook • Library: https://fcplcat.fairfaxcounty.gov/search/title.aspx?ctx=1.1033.0.0.1&pos=1&cn=614113 Check the How To Find Us section for Zoom Link **(Remember, the Zoom Link is different each month, do not bookmark)** ### Review "[Co-Intelligence] is a solid explainer. Convincing…a blueprint…smart and well informed…"— The Wall Street Journal "A sharp and good-humoured guide to how to make the most of generative AI. Mollick follows his own prescription for success, 'inviting AI to the table' and running his own experiements into its creative and problem-solving potential." * Andrew Hill, The Financial Times "Generative AI has an oracle, and his name is Ethan Mollick. Lucky you: our oracle has written a lucid, succinct, and eminently practical guide to navigating the revolution that is right now unfolding at an astonishing pace. Co-Intelligence is the very best book I know about the ins, outs, and ethics of generative AI. Drop everything and read it cover to cover NOW." — Angela Duckworth, New York Times bestselling author of Grit "Ethan Mollick has been a leader with the hands-on exploration of AI's evolving capabilities. In Co-Intelligence, he masterfully navigates the landscape of AI advancements with insightful and informative commentary, presented with remarkable clarity and precision. This book is an invaluable resource, offering a comprehensive gide to current trends and future expectations in AI. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of this rapidly evolving technology." — Eric Horvitz, Chief Scientific Officer, Microsoft “In today’s cacophony of ‘AI hot takes’, Mollick has distinguished himself as the leading voice of reason on the implications of AI for work and education. Anyone seeking a basis of practical knowledge to understand the coming massive changes should read this insightful book right now." — Reid Hoffman, Co-Founder of LinkedIn and Inflection AI "Co-Intelligence brilliantly captures the essence of our evolving relationship with AI. With lucid explanations and useful examples, Mollick shows how we can enlist this technology's astonishing power to build a more intelligent and humane future." — Daniel H. Pink, New York Times bestselling author of The Power of Regret, Drive, and A Whole New Mind “Embark on a transformative journey with Co-Intelligence, Ethan Mollick’s page-turning must-read for those at the helm. Mollick’s work will help CEOs and leaders harness AI’s enormous potential as a catalyst for elevating the capabilities of any team and any organization. Brilliant, authoritative, and educational.” — Jim M. Citrin, Leader, Spencer Stuart CEO & Board Practice, author of You’re in Charge, Now What? and The 5 Patterns of Extraordinary Careers ### About the Author Ethan Mollick is a professor of management at Wharton, specializing in entrepreneurship and innovation. His research has been featured in various publications, including Forbes, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal. He is the creator of numerous educational games on a variety of topics. He lives and teaches in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

**IMPORTANT -** If you are not 100% committed please do ***not RSVP.*** No shows will be de-propritized for future events. Lets do a 2-night backpacking trip over Memorial Day weekend! The Mount Rogers/Grayson Highlands loop hike is an iconic section of the Appalachian Trail, located in the southwestern hills of Virginia within the Jefferson National Forest. This region is best known for its vast mountain views and alpine peaks with **wild ponies** roaming about. This area is also home to Virginia's highest point, Mount Rogers, sitting at 5,729'. This is a premier east-coast backpacking destination, so don't miss this one. ## **Trail Facts** * **Difficulty Level:** Moderate * **Length:** 21.4 Miles * **Duration:** 3 Days * **Elevation Gain:** 3,898 Feet * **Bear Canisters:** Not Required * **Permits:** None * **Dogs**: Allowed * **Meetup/Carpool:** Vienna Metro South * **Trailhead Parking:** 36.6893579, -81.5320954 * **AllTrails Map**: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/mount-rogers-and-appalachian-trail-loop-958adb5?u=i&sh=rak641 **Trail Details:** We will meet at The Vienna Metro station on Saturday morning at 8am and drive to the Mt Rogers Trailhead (off Rt 603). This parking lot is **NOT** the paid lot near Masie Gap, and so can fill up. I'd like to try to get there as early as possible. The drive is about 5 hours. I will drive and am happy to have others carpool with me - but please note, I will have my small black labrador in the back seat. **Day 1** After we park, we will hike about 7 miles to our campsite, diverting once to summit Mt Rogers. There arent any views here, but it's worth the .3 miles to say you've been to the highest point in VA! We will camp on the first night at the scenic tent sites near the Thomas Knob Shelter on the AT. There is water at this site and we may see wild ponies if we're lucky. **Day 2** The second day is about 10.7 miles, which includes spectacular views, unique rock formations and wide open grassy meadows. We will camp near the Old Orchard Shelter. There is a spring with water at this site as well. **Day 3** The third day will be a short 3.5 mile hike from camp back to the cars. Getting to the cars early will mean that we should get back to DC around 4-5pm. On the drive home, I plan to stop at Martin's in downtown Roanoke (413 1st St SW, Roanoke, VA 24011). **Essential Items**: * Tent * Sleeping pad​ * Sleeping bag suitable for expected temperatures​ * Backpack (appropriate for overnight backpacking)​ * Backpacking stove with fuel​ * Pot, cup, dish, and utensils​ * Dehydrated meals​ and snacks * Water bottles or hydration system (capacity for at least 2 liters)​ * Water filter or purification tablets​ * Headlamp with extra batteries​ * Rain gear * Dry bags or pack cover​ * Warm clothing layers (non-cotton) * Trowel for and toiletries for Leave-No-Trace compliance **Optional Items**: * Personal first aid kit​ * Map and compass or GPS device * Power bank or external battery * Trekking poles​ * Camp shoes * Electrolyte supplements​ * Alcohol​ * Books, games, or other enterainment * Gaiters​ * Sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent​​ **CARPOOL:** Don't forget if you want a ride or are willing to offer a ride – be a friend to the environment, save money, and make friends. **LIABILITY NOTICE:** Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.​ For more information on the common adventurer model, please see [Ron Watters' definition](https://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm).​ If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the [US Forest Service](https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost). ​ See you on the trail!

**Title**: Amplifying Engineering Skills with Claude Code In this session we will dive into how Claude Code can augment modern engineering practices, from rapid prototyping and refactoring to test generation and documentation. We’ll cover real-world use cases, integration patterns, and tips for getting the most out of AI in your development lifecycle. 6-6:30p.m. - food & drinks 6:30-7:30p.m. - Presentation 7:30-8:00p.m. - Q&A and Possible concept presentation for feedback

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Artemis II and Beyond,”** on how the recent space mission fits into long-term plans for the Moon, with Michael J. Neufeld, retired senior curator for the Space History Department of the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-artemis-ii-and-beyond](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-artemis-ii-and-beyond) .] NASA’s recent, spectacular Artemis II mission is a sign that the United States is serious about sending humans to the Moon again. Gain an understanding of how Artemis II fits in both past and planned lunar missions with historian Michael Neufeld, who was lead curator of the Smithsonian’s Destination Moon exhibit. He has taught at Johns Hopkins, Colgate, and other universities, and is the author or editor of nine books dealing with the history of technology. He’ll start by looking at the aftermath of the Apollo program of a half century ago and why it ended only four years after its first lunar mission. He’ll consider why no lasting lunar programs emerged from major announcements by two presidents, George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush, that astronauts would be going back to the Moon and on to Mars. His vividly illustrated lecture will then explore how Artemis is a product of a human spaceflight program that has changed dramatically over the past 50 years. We’ll look at how collaboration with Europe, Canada and Japan became integral to the shuttle and International Space Station programs, and how the rise of new commercial space companies such as SpaceX has enabled NASA to buy both space services and space craft. Both international and commercial partners are involved in the latest Moon efforts, with SpaceX and Blue Origin expected to supply the landers to take astronauts down to a planned base on the Moon’s South Pole. How soon will any of this happen? Probably not as quickly as NASA says, but the specter of a Chinese landing on the Moon by 2030 is one obvious reason to keep things moving along. We’ll look at the sustainability of the Artemis space program for at least the next decade or so. You’ll emerge from the talk with no doubt that exciting days are ahead for space fans. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: The Artemis II mission launch (NASA photo).

Qamaria Yemeni Coffee is authentic, spacious, has a helpful staff, and I like their espresso. If you try this place on your own, they’re open early and late. This spot has been recommended a couple times and I think it’ll make a great stop on our journey. Come out Saturday morning for a relaxed convo. (Please keep your RSVP updated if you know you won't be able to attend, so others who can join have the opportunity to. No discussions on politics, religion or potentially controversial topics. We're here to relax and have fun. Just be respectful and we'll be alright. Pay your own way, and enjoy!)

**Art Sparks: Floral Festival: Haymarket Gainesville** Ages 10 and Up Flower pens, floral bookmarks, mushroom, moss, Hedge Hobbit, Goblin Grim, and Fae creations - there's a craft for every vibe!