ASA described the world’s largest space event held earlier this month as ‘record breaking’ and the ‘launch of Australia into a new era of space collaboration’ in a statement published earlier this week.
IAC 2025 reportedly gathered more than 7,500 delegates from 99 countries to the International Convention Centre Sydney, including a Pacific delegation with ministerial representation from Cook Islands and Solomon Islands. In addition, more than 19,500 space enthusiasts of all ages reportedly attended the Congress’ free Space Day on 3 October.
The week-long Congress delivered thousands of technical, inspiring and futuristic presentations from more than 450 international and domestic exhibitors. Of note, the Australian Space Agency showcased a 4.6-billion-year-old sample from asteroid Ryugu.
“We have come a long way since the last time we hosted IAC,” according to Australian Space Agency head Enrico Palermo.
“Australia is leading space science research and developing new on-orbit capabilities that enhance the way we live and work. We have our vast outback and expansive coastlines that makes us a prime destination for space launches and returns.
“Today, Australia looks to the future not discussing what could be; or sharing plans and hypotheticals, we forge ahead as a proud spacefaring nation with much to offer our international partners.”
In a series of wins at the Congress, the Australian Government announced a mandate to begin negotiations on a cooperative agreement between the European Space Agency and Australia. The agreement will establish a formal mechanism for new and exciting opportunities between Europe and Australia’s space sectors.
A treaty-level Space Framework Agreement was signed between Australia and the United States, potentially opening new opportunities for government, businesses and researchers to collaborate on joint projects with NASA and other American partners.
An updated UK-Australia Space Bridge Arrangement was signed by UK Space Agency chief executive Dr Paul Bate and the head of the Australian Space Agency.
The ASA also celebrated the announcement of another 20 planned space returns by Varda Space Industries to Southern Launch’s Koonibba Test Range in regional South Australia.
In addition, around 20 international astronauts participated in a range of activities at IAC 2025 curated by the ASA. These outings included climbing the Harbour Bridge, surf life saving at South Curl Curl, diving at Shelly Beach and visiting native animals at the zoo, as well as visiting Sydney Children’s Hospital and UTS Tech Labs.