Islamabad: The International Conference on Applications of Space Science and Technology (ICASST) opened Tuesday at the Institute of Space Technology (IST) in collaboration with SUPARCO, with the theme “Space for Sustainable Development.”
Organizers describe the three‑day event as the largest space conference in the region, attracting more than 2,000 delegates. Over 70 international experts from 25 countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, North America and Oceania are attending, alongside senior officials from space agencies, scientists, researchers, astronauts, policymakers and industry leaders.
The program features an opening session followed by seminars, panel discussions, plenary sessions, masterclasses and technical presentations. Key topics include satellite technologies, weather monitoring, geospatial intelligence and advanced applications of artificial intelligence. A technology exhibition and poster display will showcase cutting‑edge research and innovations from around the world.
One of the highlights will be the “Meet the Astronauts Forum,” where astronaut students from Turkey, Mongolia and the United States will share their experiences and inspire young participants to pursue careers in space sciences.
The conference will also mark GIS Day 2025, emphasizing the role of geospatial technology and artificial intelligence in development.
In addition, the 14th Governing Body Meeting of ISNET will take place during the event, with member countries discussing future scientific cooperation. Pakistan is expected to sign several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with institutions from Kazakhstan, Tunisia, Senegal, Bangladesh and Iraq to strengthen collaboration in space research and technology.