77th International Astronautical Congress opens in Antalya

The 77th International Astronautical Congress has opened in Antalya, marking the first time the event has been held in Türkiye. Key topics include lunar exploration, satellite systems, artificial intelligence, space security and international cooperation.

The five-day congress is expected to attract more than 10,000 participants from over 100 countries and regions, including space agency leaders, researchers, engineers and industry representatives.

This year's theme, “The World Needs More Space,” highlights the need for broader international cooperation at a time of growing geopolitical tensions.

The exhibition features major space powers such as the United States, China and Russia, as well as countries including Türkiye that are rapidly expanding their capabilities. The global space economy is currently valued at around 600 billion U.S. dollars annually and could reach 1.8 trillion dollars by 2035.

Young researchers are also playing a prominent role, presenting projects involving space robotics, technologies for future Mars missions, microgravity research and in-space manufacturing.

First held in 1950, the International Astronautical Congress is regarded as the world's largest annual gathering of the space community. It is organized by the International Astronautical Federation.

According to CCTV+, the congress serves as a major platform for scientific exchange, business cooperation and discussions on the future development of the global space sector.