Registration Opens for Financial Support to Attend IAC 2026 Antalya

The 77th edition of the International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2026), scheduled to take place from October 5 to 9, 2026, in the coastal city of Antalya, has now entered a new phase of preparation. According to reports published on July 7, 2026, the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TÜBİTAK) officially announced that researchers, young professionals, and students can apply for financial support to attend this major event [1]. This congress, hosted by Türkiye for the first time in history, seeks to promote international cooperation and the sustainable use of space resources under the theme "The World Needs More Space" [2].

Antalya: The Gravity Center of Space Diplomacy in 2026 Antalya's hosting of IAC 2026 is not only a major achievement for Türkiye but also a turning point for the entire region. Organized by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) in collaboration with the Turkish Space Agency (TUA) and the SAHA Istanbul Aerospace Cluster, the event is expected to attract more than 10,000 participants from around the world [3]. The NEST Congress Center in Antalya will host high-level protocol meetings, industrial exhibitions, and technical presentations showcasing humanity's latest achievements in quantum technologies, planetary sciences, and space law [2].

Who is Eligible for Support? The TÜBİTAK support program is specifically designed for individuals whose papers or abstracts have been accepted by the congress technical committee. According to the new call, independent researchers, professionals working in the private and public sectors, as well as students from high school to doctoral levels who intend to present their research results in Antalya, can benefit from these facilities [1]. The aim of this initiative is to strengthen the presence of national and international elites in specialized panels and increase the scientific contribution of developing nations to the space economy.

Benefits of the Support Program and How to Register The support is provided under the category of "Support for Participation in National and International Competitions and Events." These packages include coverage of congress registration fees, accommodation costs, domestic transportation, and even stipends for consumables related to projects presented at the congress [1]. Applicants must register their requests by visiting official TÜBİTAK portals and providing paper acceptance documents. Given the record-breaking submission of 8,325 abstracts from 108 countries for this edition, competition for this support is expected to be very intense [2].

Strategic Importance of IAC 2026 Holding this congress in Türkiye is part of the country's National Space Program to increase public awareness and develop the space ecosystem. In addition to the main sessions, joint workshops with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) are planned, focusing on "Space Economy Opportunities for Emerging Nations" [3]. This event provides an unparalleled platform for professional networking and creating strategic partnerships between major space agencies like NASA and ESA with small knowledge-based companies.