NASA astronauts Christina Koch and Jessica Meir have made history by completing the first ever all-female spacewalk. These icons, whose achievements I had followed for so long through screens, were literally standing by my side, in the flesh. Extraordinary moments like this can occur during the annual International Astronautical Congress (IAC), organised by the International Astronautical Federation. It is a great, once-in-a-year opportunity for all space actors to come together. And it's not even just about the people who have made history - the coolest thing about IAC is that you also get to meet people who will make history.
What to Expect at the International Astronautical Congress
I attended IAC in October 2021, masks and all due to COVID-19. The five days of the congress were a whirlwind of exhibitions, panels, plenaries, and evening activities! With many things happening simultaneously, it is essential that you study carefully the agenda beforehand, get your priorities sorted, and make a plan.
The exhibition is a treasure trove. You'll find booths representing a wide range of interests, and it's possible that big names like NASA and ESA will host interactive sessions. Don't be shy—ask questions! The representatives love to share their knowledge, exchange contact info, and sometimes they hand out freebies. You might even stumble upon cultural gems, like the dates I enjoyed at the Saudi Space Agency booth, honoring Sultan ibn Salman Al Saud’s 1985 space shuttle mission. In general, the exhibition is a great opportunity to learn a lot about the dynamics of the public agencies and the private sector.
Plenaries are equally thrilling. Renowned speakers from diverse backgrounds discuss the latest in space research and technology. You'll hear about groundbreaking projects and niche topics. All in all, the IAC plenaries are structured to bring new perspectives and wonderful initiatives on the table, exploring topics like the social impact of the space industry, the importance of inclusion, and the role of young professionals.
Does this sound cool? Keep reading for details on when, where, and how!
How to Attend the International Astronautical Congress
IAC runs for five days in the autumn, changing locations each year. Anyone can register online or on-site, but don't leave it till last minute! Every year there are more than 6.000 participants, so it can get quite busy. Figure out what travel documents you need, and book accommodation and transportation well in advance. Many attendees are open to sharing rooms, and there are usually group chats and discount codes for hotels and flights.
Regarding the registration fee, there are special rates for students and young professionals (under 35 years old), as well as early bird fees. Personally, I was able to attend thanks to the NASA-SCaN scholarship, available to members of the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC). SGAC is an international organization that amplifies the voices of young space enthusiasts. They offer scholarships to help members attend IAC, and the only requirement, besides SGAC membership, is attending the Space Generation Congress (SGC). SGC is held just before IAC, and, while attendance worthy on its own, is also an excellent warm-up for IAC, as it helps meet people and get into the groove of the event.
As for what clothes to pack, don't overthink it! Focus on a respectful and elegant aesthetic. You'll see that comfort becomes key as the event progresses, so yes, pack shoes you like to walk on. One more advice is to pack layers, as venues often have strong A/C. Lastly, pack that weird space-themed item you always wanted to wear: surely there will be a great opportunity for it to shine during specific evening activities!
Are you wondering what the impact of IAC can be after it's over? It's in the next paragraph!
The International Astronautical Congress Aftermath
I am warning you: Attending the IAC has profound and lasting impact on people! Some even describe it as "addictive", looking forward to the event every single year. Personally, I made friends I still talk to and meet regularly, creating a network that makes me feel that I truly belong in the space industry. Colleagues are now more familiar with my work, and I understand better what they do. We have collaborated on projects, written papers together, and we recommend each other when a relevant opportunity arises. Plus, I brought back some amazing freebies and photos, which are great mementos of the event.
The connections made, knowledge gained, and experiences shared at IAC continue to resonate long after the congress ends. It's an event that not only advanced my professional life but also enriched my personal journey in the space industry. If you are considering to attend the International Astronautical Congress, this is your sign to start planning!
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