Bâtiment des Forces Motrices, Geneva Geneva has secured the 80th International Astronautical Congress, bringing the world’s largest annual gathering of the space community to Switzerland from 8 to 12 October 2029.
More than 10,000 representatives from space agencies, industry, research institutions, start-ups and governments are expected to attend the congress at Palexpo, whose large-scale event facilities and direct connection to Geneva Airport supported the city’s bid.
The host was selected by the International Astronautical Federation during its General Assembly in Antalya, with Geneva competing against Barcelona and Houston. The congress will take place under the theme “Celebrating Space, Building Trust”, connecting the scientific and commercial ambitions of the space sector with Geneva’s established role in diplomacy and international cooperation.
The successful Swiss bid was led by Swissmem, the Swiss Space Industries Group and the Swiss Space Office, with support from K.I.T. Group Switzerland, Space Exchange Switzerland and the Geneva Convention Bureau.
“With its international standing, neutrality and first-class infrastructure, Geneva offers ideal conditions for a global congress of this importance,” said Stefan Brupbacher, Swissmem Director and President of the Local Organising Committee.
Hosting the congress will give Switzerland an international platform for its space ecosystem, which encompasses more than 130 companies, research institutions and organisations contributing to major global programmes. It will also bring together fields that Geneva is particularly well placed to connect: science, industry, policymaking and multilateral dialogue.
The 2029 edition will coincide with two milestones—the 80th edition of the congress and the 60th anniversary of the first Moon landing. Its exhibition will open to the public on the final day, extending the event’s reach beyond the professional space community.