Türkiye to host IAC 2026, highlighting national space program and global achievements

Monday 19 January 2026 - 12:30

By: Sahili Aya

Türkiye to host IAC 2026, highlighting national space program and global achievements

Türkiye will host the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2026 from October 5–9 in Antalya, showcasing its National Space Program and recent achievements in manned missions, satellite production, and spaceport development. Over 10,000 experts, entrepreneurs, and academics from around the world are expected to attend.

Following the success of its first manned space mission in 2024, Türkiye has accelerated its initiatives under the National Space Program, aiming to secure a place among the world’s leading space nations. Astronauts Alper Gezeravcı and Tuva Cihangir Atasever spearheaded Türkiye’s human spaceflight efforts, and the country has now become one of the few capable of producing its own satellites with Türksat 6A.

IAC 2026, the 77th edition of the congress, will focus not only on space science and technology but also on sustainability, tourism, aviation, and technological innovation. Türkiye’s role in international space diplomacy is emphasized by the election of Yusuf Kıraç, President of Türkiye Space Agency (TUA), as Vice President of the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) and Chair of the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization Council.

The country has allocated 9 billion lira for space activities in 2026, up from 5 billion last year, funding ambitious projects including the Moon Program and the construction of a spaceport in Somalia. These initiatives aim to achieve full autonomy in satellite launches and lunar missions.

Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacır highlighted the significance of IAC 2026: “This congress will showcase Türkiye’s rise in space science and technology, ensuring that our space initiatives contribute to a sustainable future for all humanity.”

The event will be held at Antalya’s NEST Congress Center, featuring international exhibitions, high-level sessions, academic presentations, and technical workshops. It is expected to strengthen global collaboration, scientific innovation, and space diplomacy.