77th International Astronautical Congress Starts in Antalya

The congress, organized every year by the International Space Federation, will be held this year under the coordination of the Ministry of Industry and Technology, hosted by the Turkish Space Agency and SAHA Istanbul, and under the "Global Communication Partnership" of the Anadolu Agency (AA) on October 5-9.

Necessary preparations for the International Astronautical Congress have been completed in Antalya, which hosts millions of tourists every year and has previously hosted international organizations such as G20, NATO summit and Antalya Diplomatic Forum.

NEST Congress and Fair Center in Belek Tourism Center is prepared for the congress.

While security measures were increased around the center, its interior was arranged for the opening program, sessions and meetings.

The visuals prepared for the congress also included images of Antalya's historical and natural beauties such as Side Ancient City, Aspendos Ancient City, Kaputaş Beach and Yivli Minaret.

Turkish Space Agency President Yusuf Kıraç told the AA correspondent that they started preparations 3 years ago after it was announced that the "77th International Space Congress will be held in Antalya" and made observations by attending the congresses in Milan and Sydney.

"What can we do differently?" Stating that they think and are working on it, Kıraç said, "There is a feverish work in the area where the congress will be held. International companies in the field of space will participate in the congress. Companies such as SpaceX, Airbus, Boeing and many companies from the Far East, China and Europe will be here. Those companies will be here with their technical products." he said.

"Thousands of article applications came from 108 countries"

Kıraç stated that academics will take part in the congress with their articles and said:

"A record was broken in this event, which will be held for the first time in Türkiye. Thousands of article applications came from 108 countries. What is really pleasing is the interest of Turkish young people. More than 1800 articles came from Türkiye to the congress. This was a world record. It was the highest number of articles from one country in 77 years. Approximately 700 of them were accepted. Our young people will come here and present the articles."

Stating that they want to ensure that ideas turn into products through bilateral relations and agreements to be established in Antalya, Kıraç said, "For the first time in the history of the congress, a 'Future Space' area will be created here. The top 10 startups in certain competitions of the Ministry and the winners of TEKNOFEST will participate in this area. Foreign startups will also be in this area." he said.