75th IAC – A Historic Gathering of Space Leaders Reaching New Heights

MILAN — The 75th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2024) in Milan was a monumental event! It marked the 75th time that we gathered from all over the globe to unite around our shared passion for space.

Hosted by the Italian Association of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIDAA), one of the founding members of the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), and co-hosted by the Italian Space Agency (ASI) and Leonardo, this record-breaking 75th IAC edition reached several historic heights, leaving an impressive legacy.

This year’s motto, “Responsible Space for Sustainability,” emphasized embracing all stakeholders from the space community and beyond. IAF announced that IAC 2024 has been the largest IAC ever held.

With more than 11,200 delegates from 120 countries, it set an unprecedented new record, making it not only the largest IAC but also one of the most diverse gatherings of space professionals. Additionally, 3,000 people joined via livestream, and an additional 3,500 participants of all ages attended the public day.

Exhibition, global summit and inspiration

The astonishing IAC 2024 Exhibition featured a record number of more than 530 exhibitors, filled with captivating displays, interactive booths, and groundbreaking technologies. Notable highlights included the display of samples from the far side of the moon brought by China’s Chang’e 6 mission, as well as samples from the asteroid Bennu, returned by NASA’s OSIRIS-REx Mission.

A major highlight of this year’s IAC was the inaugural IAF Global Space Leaders Summit, which brought together 60 heads of space agencies and offices. This historic assembly—the largest gathering of leaders from both well-established and emerging space nations—fostered high-level discussions on space cooperation, governance, and sustainability.

The IAC week was filled with inspiring presentations and the latest developments in space programs. An important update was provided by ESA on the Euclid mission, designed to explore the composition of dark matter and deepen our understanding of the universe.

As part of the IAF International Astronauts Chapter, the congress also featured an impressive outreach program with 25 international astronauts. They engaged with the public, students, and young professionals, inspiring the next generation of space enthusiasts and fostering global space education.

Space Voyaging was honored to serve as an official Media Partner for this year’s IAC. Our dedication to keeping the space community informed led us to Milan, where we provided exclusive, behind-the-scenes coverage of the event through our blog and social media channels.

Looking ahead

The IAF General Assembly selected the European Space Foundation (ESF) to host IAC 2027 in Poznań, Poland. The IAF continues to grow as the global space community expands, welcoming 73 new member organizations this year, which brings overall membership to 563 from 80 countries.

The ISRO Chandrayaan-3 Team was awarded this year’s prestigious IAF World Space Award. Their successful mission serves as a reminder of the power of space exploration to inspire and unite people worldwide. As Michael Gold, one of the IAF Excellence in International Cooperation Award winners, eloquently said during the Opening Ceremony: “Let Space be the torch that brings us all together.”

Space serves as a beacon of hope for all humankind, uniting us to push the boundaries of human achievement and pursue solutions that enhance sustainability and resilience on Earth. The importance of space in addressing global challenges is clear, and this crucial discussion will continue next year in Sydney, Australia, at the 76th International Astronautical Congress, organized by the IAF and hosted by the Space Industry Association of Australia (SIAA).

The International Astronautical Federation (IAF)

Founded in 1951, the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) is the world’s leading space advocacy body with more than 560 members in 80 countries, including all leading space agencies, industries, research institutions, universities, societies, associations, institutes, and museums worldwide.

Following its motto “Connecting @ll Space People” and its vision of “A space-faring world cooperating for the benefit of humanity,” the Federation advances knowledge about space, supporting the development and application of space assets by promoting global cooperation.

As the organizer of the annual International Astronautical Congress (IAC) and other thematic events, the IAF actively encourages the development of space activities for peaceful purposes and supports the dissemination of scientific and technical information related to space.

For our complete coverage of the 2024 International Astronautical Congress, please click here.