Turkey Hosts 77th International Astronautical Congress in Antalya

Turkey is hosting the 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Antalya from October 5-9, marking the country's first time organizing the event. The congress takes place at the NEST Congress and Fair Center in Belek, with preparations underway for roughly three years.

A Ministers and Parliamentarians Meeting preceded the congress, hosted by Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacir. Representatives from 38 countries discussed peaceful space research, space law, and sustainable space economy governance.

“The 5-9 October dates will be when the heart of the global space agenda beats in Turkey.”

Minister Kacir announced that Turkey's first lunar spacecraft, developed with 87% domestic components, is scheduled for launch in 2027. He described the project as a milestone for the National Technology Move.

The event expects over 12,000 participants from 111 countries, including more than 40 astronauts. A record 8,000-plus scientific papers were submitted globally, with Turkey contributing over 1,800 — the highest single-country total in the congress's 77-year history.

Major companies such as SpaceX, Airbus, and Boeing will attend alongside firms from China, the Far East, and Europe. A new "Future Space" area debuts this year to help turn ideas into commercial products.