International Astronautical Congress (IAC)
The International Astronautical Congress is the one place and time of the year where all global space actors come together. The event attracts more than 6.000 participants each year.
Covering all space sectors and topics, it offers everyone the latest space information and developments in academia and industry, networking opportunities to connect with the global space community and explore unique potential partnerships.
For over 75 years, the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) has been proudly organized by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), traveling each year to a new country, embracing a new theme, and partnering with a different local host to celebrate the global spirit of space endeavor.
IAC 2026
The 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) will take place in the shining city of Antalya, Türkiye, from 5–9 October 2026 — marking the first time in history that the event will be hosted in Türkiye. Known for its rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, breathtaking Mediterranean coastline, and vibrant innovation ecosystem, Antalya will offer a unique backdrop to one of the world’s most prestigious space gatherings.
Hosted by Turkish Space Agency (TUA), co-hosted by the SAHA Istanbul Aerospace Cluster, and organized in collaboration with leading national and international partners, IAC 2026 aims to position Türkiye as a dynamic contributor to the global space landscape. In an era increasingly dependent on space technologies for communication, security, sustainability, and climate resilience, IAC 2026 will serve as a rallying point for nations and industries to align their efforts and will be one of the keystones in the IACs history and one of the most remembered one in the space community's memory.
IAC 2026 Theme: The World Needs More Space.
The theme of IAC 2026, The World Needs More Space, frame a programme inviting visionary ideas, innovative technologies, and pioneering research. In an age where the exploration and utilization of outer space are more crucial than ever, our motto emphasizes the imperative of maintaining a secure, accessible, and collaborative environment in the cosmos. The congress will serve as a platform to highlight the importance of space as a shared resource that must be preserved for peaceful use, fostering international cooperation across all nations, regardless of their developmental status. The core focus of “The World Needs More Space” is to advocate for the sustainable and equitable exploration of space. As more countries and diverse stakeholders join the global space economy, it is essential to ensure that space remains an open frontier for all. The IAC 2026 will address pressing issues surrounding space security, exploration, and the ethical implications of our activities beyond Earth.
We aim to inspire a dialogue that transcends borders, encouraging innovative solutions that harness the benefits of space exploration while safeguarding it for future generations. The congress will feature engaging discussions, groundbreaking presentations, and collaborative workshops that seek to unite our shared aspirations for the future of space.
Join us in this pivotal moment as we explore the vast potential of the cosmos and reaffirm our commitment to a space environment that is secure, sustainable, and open to exploration. Together, let us cultivate a spirit of cooperation and inclusivity that recognizes the importance of every nation’s contribution to our shared destiny among the stars.
The IAC 2026 promises to be an unforgettable gathering that will shape the future of space exploration and utilization. We invite you to be a part of this remarkable event and contribute to the dialogue on how we can collectively ensure that the cosmos remains a realm of opportunity, inspiration, and unity for generations to come.
