NSGE is an annual event jointly organized by EAGE (European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers) and HAGI (Indonesian Association of Geophysicists).

The conference serves as a platform for geoscientists, researchers, and industry professionals to share innovations, with a focus on applied technologies, sustainable practices, and cross-sector insights related to near-surface geoscience.

Conference participants attentively listen to a presentation during NSGE 2026.

Previously held in China, the annual event selected Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) as the host of its 8th edition. ITB was chosen for its unique blend of traditional and modern architecture, supported by Bandung’s strong academic heritage and natural beauty.

Key topics discussed during the conference included environmental geophysics, engineering applications, site characterization, urban development, natural hazard mitigation, and the role of near-surface methods in supporting geothermal energy, infrastructure resilience, and carbon storage.

Participants gather for a group photo at ITB’s East Hall.

The event was held over four days, beginning with a field trip on 9 May 2026, followed by the main conference program from 11–13 May 2026 at ITB’s East Hall and West Hall.

The first day featured a field trip to the Patuha Geothermal Field in Ciwidey, Bandung Regency. The following days were filled with conference sessions, exhibitions, and poster presentations.

Opening remarks were delivered by EAGE President Dr. Sanjeev Rajput, HAGI President Dr. Ir. Dedi Yusmen, Rector of Institut Teknologi Bandung Prof. Dr. Ir. Tatacipta Dirgantara, M.T., and Conference Chairman Dr. Mohammad Rachmat Sule.

Prof. Dr. Ir. Tatacipta Dirgantara, M.T., Rector of Institut Teknologi Bandung, delivers his welcoming remarks at NSGE 2026.

“This meeting has long served as an important platform for geoscientists, engineers, and researchers from across the region and beyond to exchange knowledge, foster collaboration, and address pressing near-surface challenges. From natural hazard mitigation and urban geophysics to geothermal energy and carbon storage, the topics discussed here have a tangible impact on communities throughout the Asia-Pacific region and beyond,” said Dr. Mohammad Rachmat Sule, Conference Chairman, during his opening address.

The conference featured several keynote speakers, including Rikki Rahmat Firdaus, Dr. Ignatius Sonny Winardhi, Bayu Giriansyah, Novianto ST, Dr. Catherine Truffert, Koya Suto, Prof. Takeshi Tsuji, and Prof. Syafrizal.

Prof. Takeshi Tsuji from The University of Tokyo presents his research during NSGE 2026.

The exhibition featured a range of participating organizations and companies, including Impulse Radar, Nord West, LCR DPRI Kyoto University, Exact, PT Geoservices, Tuochuang Detection, Stryde, Wavelet, and Xcalibur Smart Mapping.

Representatives from Exact, one of the exhibitors at NSGE 2026, explain their findings to conference participants.

In addition, numerous speakers from academia and industry, both from Indonesia and abroad, presented their research on various aspects of near-surface geoscience. Topics included geothermal, groundwater, mineral, and hydrocarbon exploration, as well as disaster mitigation, passive seismic methods, energy transition, ground stability, and many other emerging issues.

H. Duerrast from Prince of Songkla University receives a commemorative plaque in recognition of his contribution as a speaker at NSGE 2026.

The conference, exhibition, and poster presentation sessions were conducted successfully and received enthusiastic participation throughout the event. Interactive discussions provided valuable opportunities for academics, researchers, and industry professionals to exchange insights and explore the latest technological developments.

Through this event, participants not only gained new knowledge and perspectives but also expanded their international networks, fostering collaborations and encouraging future innovation in the field of near-surface geoscience.