The 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) will take place in Antalya, Türkiye, from 5-9 October 2026. Hosted by the Turkish Space Agency (Türkiye Uzay Ajans), this edition promises collaboration, networking, and inspiration against the backdrop of the Turkish Riviera. The theme, “The World Needs More Space” brings countries together to work on peaceful missions and reminds us that we all share one small planet in a vast universe.
The Abstract deadline is the 28 February 2026 (23:59 CET) – maximum 400 words
Since establishing the Turkish Space Agency in 2018, Türkiye has moved decisively. The 2021 National Space Program laid out an ambitious 10-year roadmap: lunar exploration, indigenous satellite technologies, and a regional positioning and timing system. Just three years later, that ambition became tangible when Alper GEZERAVCI became Türkiye’s first astronaut, conducting 13 scientific experiments aboard the ISS—work prepared entirely by Turkish scientists and academics.
Türkiye represents an emerging space nation success story. The country has transitioned from relying entirely on major international manufacturers for its space infrastructure—purchasing telecommunications and Earth observation satellites from established industry leaders—to building its own. İMECE, designed and developed by TÜBİTAK Space (TUBITAK UZAY) and launched in April 2023, provides sub-meter resolution imagery as Türkiye’s first domestically produced Earth observation satellite. Turksat 6A followed in July 2024 as the country’s first indigenously developed communications satellite. Together, these milestones mark Türkiye’s shift from customer to manufacturer across critical space capabilities. This transformation demonstrates how strategic funding, planning, and astronaut-led inspiration can accelerate space sector development.
Academia and private sector are leveraging this momentum. Orta Doğu Teknik Üniversitesi / Middle East Technical University is building twin lunar rovers for Chinese launch, while Fergani Space is developing a GNSS satellite constellation with SpaceX handling launches. These partnerships demonstrate Türkiye’s balanced relations from East to West—a unique positioning in the global economy. This diplomatic advantage combines with practical benefits for IAC2026: Antalya’s accessibility, manageable visa requirements, and flight connections from both regions could drive record delegate registrations.
With a 30% budget increase for space activities this year, Türkiye has the opportunity to reshape its strategy and assert a more decisive role in the global space economy. Through appropriate partnerships, policy evolution, and private sector engagement, Türkiye could position itself among the world’s leading emerging space nations.
Let’s meet at IAC2026 in Antalya in October. Please contact me if you would like to collaborate.
Where Space Bridges East and West: Türkiye’s Moment to Unite the Global Space Community
