Poland has been selected to host the world’s largest space event, the IAC 2027 International Astronautical Congress. This decision was made on October 18 during this year’s IAC Congress in Milan. After more than 60 years, one of the most prestigious astronautical events will once again take place in Poland. The project will be carried out jointly by the Ministry of Economic Development and Technology, the Polish Space Agency, the European Space Foundation, the City of Poznań, the MTP Group, and The Way company.

Efforts to bring the IAC to Poland lasted nearly two years and went through several stages defined by the main organizer, the International Astronautical Federation (IAF). The final stage – the selection of the host for IAC 2027 – took place on the last day of this year’s congress. Over five hundred members of the Federation, including space agencies, universities, companies, and NGOs in the space sector, participated in the vote. The 78th edition of the event will be hosted by the city of Poznań. In the autumn of 2027, nearly 10,000 guests from around the world are expected to visit the capital of Greater Poland Voivodeship. The congress will revolve around the theme: ‘One Space. Shared Future.’

The first part, ‘One Space’, reminds us that space is a common realm for all people, transcending divisions. The Astronautical Congress (IAC) serves as a platform for cooperation and fostering dialogue, which is particularly significant for Poland in the current geopolitical climate, explains Łukasz Wilczyński, President of the European Space Foundation and Chief Executive of the Local Organizing Committee for IAC 2027 in Poznan. ‘Shared Future’, on the other hand, reflects a forward-looking vision – both near and far – highlighting the growing importance of space in the economic lives of many nations. Following the digital revolution, it will be space and the activities undertaken there that will drive the most advanced economies Wilczyński adds.

Poland is currently experiencing dynamic growth in the space sector, which directly contributes to technological and scientific progress. The interdisciplinary nature of space activities also drives the development of various branches of the economy, enhancing the quality of life for society. For example, satellite data is widely used in numerous fields such as spatial management, agriculture, environmental protection, and emergency management. The application of satellite technology is essential not only for improving administrative efficiency and enhancing the quality of life for Poles, but it also plays a critical role in strengthening security and defense in the region. The organization of the IAC in Poland in 2027 is not only a matter of prestige for our country but also a chance to promote Central and Eastern Europe as a burgeoning hub of space innovation,said Minister of Economic Development and Technology, Krzysztof Paszyk.

The decision to award Poland the organization of the world’s largest space event is a testament to our country’s growing role in space exploration and utilization. It also reflects the increasingly strong position of Polish companies securing more contracts and the active participation of our scientists in international projects. I am immensely proud of this achievement. On a broader scale, it’s symbolic, aligning with the theme of the future congress. It represents a kind of ‘rebirth,’ showcasing the rising strength of the Central and Eastern European region, with Poland taking on a leadership role, said Professor Grzegorz Wrochna, President of the Polish Space Agency.

The choice of Poznań as the host of this event was not accidental.

Poznań has successfully hosted numerous international events and is perfectly suited for this role. Our location, halfway between Warsaw and Berlin, offers excellent transportation links to major European capitals. We also stand out with our vibrant cultural offerings and top-tier gastronomy. Additionally, Poznań boasts excellent hotel facilities and, most importantly, the largest congress and trade fair center in Poland and Central and Eastern Europe, located right here in our city, said Mayor of Poznań, Jacek Jaskowiak.

For years, MTP has been the undisputed leader among trade fair centers in Poland and Central and Eastern Europe. With 15 architecturally diverse exhibition pavilions, a modern congress center, and professionally equipped conference halls and event spaces for nearly 20,000 participants, we are the ideal partner for both national and international event organizers, emphasizes MTP Group President Tomasz Kobierski.

In addition to meeting all the requirements set by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), the Polish side took extra steps to strengthen its candidacy. It secured letters of support from key figures in the Polish government, including the Minister of Economic Development and Technology – who led the Organizing Committee—the Minister of National Defense, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Science, and the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development. The European Space Agency (ESA), the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA), and countries in Central and Eastern Europe, as well as nations from further afield like Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, and India, also voiced their support for Poland’s bid. Additionally, backing came from Polish companies in the space sector and their associations, such as the Polish Space Industry Association and the Polish Space Professionals Association.

The preparation of Poland’s candidacy for hosting the IAC 2027 was coordinated by an organizing office consisting of several key institutions. These included the Ministry of Economic Development and Technology, the Polish Space Agency, and the European Space Foundation – a member of the IAF and organizer of major space-related events like the European Rover Challenge. Also involved were the MTP GROUP – Poznań Congress Center, renowned for organizing national and international congresses, THE WAY, a producer of large-scale national and international events, and the Poznań Convention Bureau, representing the city’s authorities. This collaborative effort reflects a robust and well-coordinated approach, highlighting Poland’s capability to host such a significant global event.