International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2026
International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2026 will bring together the global space community in Antalya, Türkiye, from 5–9 October 2026. The congress is the annual gathering place for space actors from across the world, covering space sectors and topics across academia and industry.
Organized by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), hosted by the Turkish Space Agency (TUA), and co-hosted by the SAHA Aerospace Cluster, IAC 2026 will mark the first time the congress has been hosted in Türkiye.
With the theme “The World Needs More Space,” the event will explore ideas, technologies, and research focused on the future of space exploration, utilization, security, sustainability, and international cooperation.
When is IAC 2026?
The 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2026) will take place from 5–9 October 2026 in Antalya, Türkiye.
Themes
The theme of IAC 2026 is “The World Needs More Space.”
The congress will examine the role of space as a shared resource and highlight the importance of maintaining a secure, accessible, and collaborative environment beyond Earth. Discussions will focus on sustainable and equitable exploration, space security, emerging technologies, and the ethical considerations surrounding space activities.
The program will feature discussions, presentations, and workshops exploring how space technologies can support future exploration while encouraging international participation and knowledge exchange.
What’s On?
IAC 2026 will feature a program covering developments across the space sector, with attendees able to explore the latest information and advancements from academia and industry.
The congress will include presentations, discussions, and collaborative sessions focused on topics including:
Space Innovation and Technology
The event will highlight next-generation technologies and solutions supporting sustainable access to space, including next-generation propulsion systems, green satellite design, and reusable space architectures.
Global Space Community
IAC 2026 will provide a meeting point for space professionals, researchers, organizations, and industry representatives to discuss developments, exchange knowledge, and explore potential partnerships.
Environment and Safety
The congress will emphasize safety, transparency, and ethical responsibility across mission design and event operations, with a focus on protecting participants, teams, and stakeholders.
Speakers
IAC 2026 will feature contributions from space leaders, researchers, industry representatives, and officials from across the global space community.
Confirmed contributors include:
- Yusuf Kıraç, Chairman of the Board and President of the Turkish Space Agency (TUA)
- Haluk Bayraktar, Chairman of SAHA Aerospace Cluster
- Mehmet Fatih Kacır, Minister of Industry and Technology of the Republic of Türkiye and Chair of the IAC 2026 Local Organizing Committee
Previous Highlights
For over 75 years, the International Astronautical Congress has been organized by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), travelling each year to a new country and working with different local hosts to represent the global nature of space activities.
The congress attracts more than 6,000 participants each year, bringing together representatives from across the space sector.
Where is IAC 2026?
The 77th International Astronautical Congress will be held at the NEST Convention Centre in Belek, Antalya, Türkiye.
NEST Convention Centre is one of Türkiye’s largest conference facilities and can accommodate up to 20,000 participants across fully equipped conference rooms.
To learn more about International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2026, to register to attend or exhibit, please click below .
