SUPARCO and IST to host International Space Science
Conference
Pakistan is preparing to welcome leading global space
experts as it hosts the landmark International Conference on Applications of Space Science and Technology (ICAST–2025) from November 18–20 at the Institute of Space Technology (IST),
Islamabad.
The high-profile three-day event aims to foster
international dialogue, scientific innovation, and cross-border collaboration
in space science and technology.
Jointly organized by the Pakistan
Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and IST, the
conference is being held in partnership with prominent global organizations,
including the Inter-Islamic Network on Space
Science and Technology (ISNET), Asia-Pacific
Space Cooperation Organization (APSCO), Islamic
World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers (IEEE), and the National Center of GIS and Space Applications
(NCGSA).
With the theme “Space for Sustainable Development,”
ICAST–2025 will explore the vital role of space technologies in addressing
pressing global challenges such as climate change, food security, disaster
resilience, and sustainable infrastructure. The event aims to demonstrate how
data-driven, space-based solutions can support long-term socio-economic
development and enhance global well-being.
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More than 25 countries from Asia, Europe, Africa, North
America, and Oceania are set to participate, with over 70 international
delegates representing nations such as Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan,
Bangladesh, Belgium, Canada, China, Egypt, Iraq, Italy, Kazakhstan, Lebanon,
Mongolia, Morocco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Senegal,
Singapore, Sudan, Tunisia, Türkiye, the UAE, and the United States. Attendance
is expected to exceed 2,000 participants, making the event a major platform for
global scientific engagement.
The conference will feature a rich and diverse program,
including ISNET’s Strategic Leadership Forum (SLS), three specialized seminars,
three panel discussions, five plenary sessions, 12 masterclasses, and 23 technical
sessions across eight thematic tracks:
- Aeronautics and Astronautics
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Satellite Technology
- Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT)
- Remote Sensing and GIS
- Environmental Science and Climate Change
- Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)
- Space Law, Management and Outreach
A Technology Exhibition Forum, Scientific Poster Session, and a special Meet the Astronauts Forum—featuring astronauts from Türkiye, Mongolia, and the United States—will further enhance the participant experience.
A notable highlight will be a dedicated session on “Moon
Sighting: Scientific, Religious and Technological Perspectives,” bringing
together global experts to discuss both traditional and modern approaches to
crescent observation.
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In alignment with GIS Day 2025, the conference will also
spotlight advancements in geospatial technologies, Earth observation, climate
analytics, and the expanding role of artificial intelligence in environmental
monitoring and decision-making.
Adding diplomatic significance, ICAST–2025 will host the 14th
Governing Body Meeting (GBM) of ISNET, along with the signing of multiple MoUs
with space agencies and international organizations from the Asia-Pacific
region, Bangladesh, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Senegal, Tunisia, and others—aimed at
strengthening cooperation in peaceful space applications.
ICAST–2025 highlights Pakistan’s growing ambition to play a
leading role in the global space arena. By promoting scientific exchange and
reinforcing international partnerships, the conference stands as a major
milestone in Pakistan’s pursuit of regional leadership in space science,
research, and innovation—an event of national pride, global visibility, and
meaningful scientific impact.
Source: APP