International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2026
International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2026 will bring together global space, defense, and technology communities in Antalya, Türkiye.
The congress provides a platform for organizations, researchers, industry professionals, and government representatives to explore developments across the space sector, including technologies that support communication, security, sustainability, and exploration.
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 be the first edition of the event hosted in Türkiye.
With the theme “The World Needs More Space,” the event will examine the importance of secure, sustainable, and accessible space activities, alongside the technologies and research shaping future space operations.
When is IAC 2026?
IAC 2026 will take place from 5–9 October 2026 in Antalya, Türkiye.
Themes
The theme of IAC 2026, “The World Needs More Space,” will guide discussions around the future of space exploration and utilization.
Key areas of focus will include:
Space Security and Sustainability
The congress will address the importance of maintaining a secure and sustainable space environment as more nations and organizations participate in the global space economy.
Space Technologies and Innovation
IAC 2026 will highlight developments in technologies including next-generation propulsion systems, green satellite design, and reusable architectures designed to support sustainable access to space.
International Space Cooperation
The event will explore collaboration across nations, industries, and research communities to support the continued development of space capabilities.
What’s On?
IAC 2026 will feature a program of presentations, discussions, and workshops covering developments across the space sector.
The event will provide opportunities to explore:
- Space technology developments across academia and industry
- Research and innovation shaping future missions
- Discussions around space security, exploration, and responsible use
- Collaboration opportunities between international space organizations
Innovation and Future Technologies
The congress will showcase emerging approaches to sustainable space access, including advanced propulsion, satellite technologies, and reusable space systems.
Industry and Research Engagement
Attendees will include representatives from across the space ecosystem, including industry professionals, researchers, and organizations involved in the development and application of space technologies.
Speakers
IAC 2026 will feature representatives from space agencies, government organizations, research institutions, and industry.
Confirmed contributors include:
- Mehmet Fatih Kacır, Minister of Industry and Technology of the Republic of Türkiye and Chair of the IAC 2026 Local Organizing Committee
- Yusuf Kıraç, Chairman of the Board and President of the Turkish Space Agency (TUA)
- Haluk Bayraktar, Chairman of SAHA Aerospace Cluster
Previous Highlights
The International Astronautical Congress has been organized by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) for more than 75 years, with each edition hosted in a different country.
The event attracts more than 6,000 participants annually, bringing together representatives from across the global space community.
Where is IAC 2026?
IAC 2026 will take place at the NEST Convention Centre in Belek, Antalya, Türkiye.
The venue is one of Türkiye’s largest conference facilities, with capacity for up to 20,000 participants across fully equipped conference rooms.
Located within Antalya’s five-star hotel region, NEST Convention Centre is surrounded by accommodation, business facilities, and event infrastructure.
NEST Convention Centre
Belek
Antalya
Türkiye
To learn more about International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2026, to register to attend or exhibit, please click below .
