Yusuf Kıraç
President
Turkish Space Agency
Haluk Bayraktar
President
SAHA İstanbul Aerospace Cluster
Welcome Address
Let’s be part of this outstanding event in Türkiye!
Dear Colleagues,
As the Head of the Turkish Space Agency (TUA), and President of SAHA İstanbul Aerospace Cluster, we are proud to invite you to the 77th International Astronautical Congress, IAC, which will take place in Antalya in October 2026.
As the premier event for the global space industry, the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) brings together leading space stakeholders from around the world and serves as an ideal platform to bring together everyone related space industry.
IAC 2026 is an essential event for the international space community, and we are thrilled to welcome over 10,000 participants to Antalya, the capital of tourism. Türkiye, having established its National Space Program with the vision of becoming a significant space nation in the international arena and a key regional space industry player, offers a unique opportunity to access an emerging market, showcase your brand, and raise awareness. We also believe that this important and high-profile event will serve as a significant milestone for the National Space Program being pursued by our country, as well as for raising awareness of the evolving space ecosystem that is developing in parallel.
At IAC 2026, attendees and exhibitors will explore the latest developments in the space industry and experience the renowned Turkish hospitality amidst the breathtaking beauty of Antalya.
On behalf of the host, the Turkish Space Agency, and co-host, SAHA Istanbul Aerospace Cluster, we are delighted to extend an invitation to you to take place in this exceptional event and have unforgettable memories at IAC 2026. We believe that IAC 2026 will be one of the keystones in the IACs history and one of the most remembered one in the space community's memory. Moreover, this event will create unique opportunities to build strong collaborations and networks.
We look forward to your valued support to make the next year’s space celebrations in Antalya truly unforgettable!
Our Motto
“The World Needs More Space”
As we stand on the brink of a new era in space exploration, Türkiye is proud to host the 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2026). This prestigious event will bring together global leaders, visionaries, scientists, and industry pioneers under the powerful theme: “The World Needs More Space.”
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.
Save the Date: IAC 2026 in Türkiye —Where the Future of Space Begins!
Why Antalya?
The Turkish Space Agency (TUA) has unveiled the National Space Program of Türkiye, comprising 10 main objectives. One of these significant goals was to send a Turkish astronaut to the International Space Station (ISS), a project initiated and successfully completed in 2024. The year 2026 holds special importance for space enthusiasts, as Türkiye’s Moon Mission, another key milestone of the National Space Program, is set to be executed in the first half of 2026. Hosting the 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Antalya will contribute to fostering space awareness among Turkish citizens, particularly the youth—another core objective of the National Space Program. All of these efforts align under the broader mission of enhancing space knowledge within Türkiye and across the globe.
Türkiye is making steady advancements in space technologies and industry, showcasing an increasing interest in the sector and setting ambitious yet attainable goals through its national space initiatives. As the public and private sectors alike prioritize this field, Türkiye is positioning itself to play a leading role within the region.
This upward trajectory is further supported by the country’s strategic geographical and demographic strengths, coupled with the growing enthusiasm of its youth for space-related activities. Demonstrating the industry’s vibrancy, the SAHA Istanbul Cluster alone encompasses more than 1,250 companies, 26 universities, and 11 R&D organizations, reflecting the sector’s depth and impact within the country.
Moreover, as of 2023, 17 universities—including one in Antalya—significantly contribute to this field through specialized departments in Space Sciences, Astronomy, and Aerospace Engineering. Beyond academic efforts, the industry also benefits from the Teknofest Aviation, Space, and Technology Festival, which attracts nearly 3 million visitors annually and hosts over 40 distinct technology competitions. With an average age of 33, Türkiye boasts substantial potential among countries active in space exploration.
In addition to its extensive potential in the space sector, Antalya and Türkiye, with their rich historical, cultural, touristic, and infrastructural assets, are well-positioned to become a prominent new destination for the IAC and the global space community. This unique offering is expected to significantly boost participation by capturing the attention and interest of attendees.
Now, the stage is set for you! Antalya’s unparalleled beauty, pristine beaches, sea, sun, and rich historical heritage await to welcome you at the International Astronautical Congress during the most pleasant time of the year. With these exceptional attributes, we present an invaluable opportunity for you to connect with key stakeholders in the space community and strengthen your brand and collaborations with professionals passionate about space. Don’t miss the chance to turn this exceptional opportunity into a strategic advantage for your brand.