The 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2026), set to take place in Antalya, Türkiye from 5–9 October 2026, has received a record 8,325 abstract submissions from 108 countries — the highest figures ever recorded for the event.
Organisers say the milestone reflects accelerating global momentum in space activities, research and international collaboration, and sets the stage for what is expected to be the largest and most globally engaged International Astronautical Congress in its history.
The latest figures significantly exceed previous records. IAC 2024 in Milan received nearly 7,000 abstracts from 103 countries, while IAC 2025 in Sydney attracted around 6,400 submissions from 106 countries. Each year has seen growing participation, but the 2026 congress marks a substantial new benchmark.
Host nation Türkiye recorded the largest single-country contribution in IAC history with 1,810 abstract submissions. Azerbaijan followed with 814 submissions, while the United States contributed 615 and China 599.
Strong participation also came from other established space nations including Italy with 492 submissions, the United Kingdom with 336, Germany with 289, India with 288 and Japan with 261.
Organisers also highlighted notable growth from emerging contributors, including Peru with 287 submissions, Mexico with 234, the Russian Federation with 207, France with 197, Canada with 136 and the Republic of Korea with 124.
The abstracts cover a wide spectrum of space-related topics, ranging from satellite technologies and planetary science to sustainability, policy, education and emerging fields such as quantum technologies.
The surge in participation reflects the expanding global nature of the space sector, with increasing involvement from new institutions, emerging space nations and interdisciplinary research groups alongside traditional industry and government participants.
Preparations for the Antalya congress are now underway, with organisers planning an expanded exhibition space, additional opportunities for cross-sector collaboration and a technical program designed to reflect the diversity and scale of the submissions.
The International Astronautical Congress is organised annually by the International Astronautical Federation and brings together space agencies, industry leaders, researchers, startups and policymakers from around the world to discuss developments shaping the future of space exploration and commercial space activity.
Space & Defence New – Space and Earth Partners and Advisory are media partners to the IAC and IAF.
