The 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2026), one of the world's largest gatherings for the space sector, opened in Antalya on Monday, bringing together leading space agencies, scientists, engineers, policymakers and industry representatives from around the world.

Held from October 5 to 9 under the theme "The World Needs More Space," the congress marks the first time Türkiye has hosted the prestigious annual event organized by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF). The event is hosted by the Turkish Space Agency (TUA) with SAHA Istanbul serving as co-host under the coordination of the Ministry of Industry and Technology.

Record participation

IAC 2026 has attracted record international interest, receiving 8,325 technical paper abstracts from 108 countries. Türkiye ranked first among participating countries with 1,810 abstract submissions, the highest number ever submitted by a single country in the history of the congress.

The event has also set a new early registration record, with more than 3,020 participants registering before the congress opened. Overall attendance is expected to exceed 6,000 delegates, including representatives of space agencies, research institutions, universities, private companies and international organizations.

Focus on the future of space

Throughout the five-day congress, participants will discuss a broad range of topics, including space exploration, satellite technologies, launch systems, advanced space technologies, Earth observation, commercial space activities, space infrastructure and the role of space in sustainable development.

The programme also includes technical sessions, exhibitions, business-to-business meetings, discussions among heads of space agencies and ministerial-level events aimed at strengthening international cooperation in the global space sector.

Major space organizations, including NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), are among the international participants at IAC 2026, which brings together space agencies, industry representatives, researchers and academic institutions from across the world.

Türkiye showcases its growing space ambitions

According to the Turkish Space Agency, hosting IAC 2026 provides an important opportunity to showcase Türkiye's expanding space ecosystem, strengthen scientific and technological cooperation, and promote partnerships between Turkish companies and international stakeholders.

The congress is also expected to support the objectives of Türkiye's National Space Programme by increasing the country's visibility in the global space community and encouraging new investment and collaboration in the aerospace sector.

Presidential Communications Director Burhanettin Duran said Türkiye's record number of scientific paper submissions reflects the country's growing capabilities and international standing in the fields of space, science and technology.(ILKHA)