Shaping a Global Bid at a Defining Moment for Space
The International Astronautical Congress (IAC) is the world’s premier space event – convening agencies, industry, academia, and governments to shape the future of the global space ecosystem.
In 2029, the Congress will mark a defining moment:
- the 80th anniversary of the IAC
- the 60th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing
- a transition to commercial space stations and sustained lunar presence
- heightened global focus on planetary defence
Against this backdrop, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) is leading a bid to host IAC 2029 in Houston, Texas.
The Opportunity
Hosting IAC is not simply about delivering a conference.
It is about:
- shaping the global narrative of space
- influencing international collaboration and policy
- creating long-term economic and capability impact
- positioning a city – and a nation – at the centre of the space ecosystem
For Houston, the opportunity is to build on its legacy as the home of NASA Johnson Space Center and Mission Control and demonstrate its evolution into a modern, commercial, and globally connected space hub.
Indo-Pacific Space’s Role
Through Indo-Pacific Space, I have been working closely with AIAA and key stakeholders to support the development of the Houston bid.
My role has focused on:
- Strategic positioning – shaping a compelling narrative that aligns Houston’s strengths with global priorities
- International engagement – ensuring the bid resonates across regions, particularly in the Americas and emerging space nations
- Content development – contributing to core bid sections including theme, legacy, accessibility, and global participation
- Coalition building – supporting alignment across government, industry, academia, and international partners
This work is grounded in a simple principle: successful bids are not just technically strong – they are globally relevant.
A Bid Built on Access, Collaboration, and Impact
A key focus of the Houston bid has been positioning IAC 2029 as a catalyst for expanding global access to space.
This includes:
- engaging all 35 nations of the Americas, many of which have not previously participated in an IAC
- supporting emerging space nations through capacity-building and legacy initiatives
- aligning with global priorities such as planetary defence, including missions like ESA–JAXA RAMSES
- integrating commercial space, policy, and societal impact into a single narrative
Why This Matters
This work reflects a broader shift in the global space sector.
Space is no longer:
- optional
- niche
- or limited to a small number of nations
It is now:
- critical infrastructure
- a driver of economic growth and national capability
- and a domain that requires global participation and coordination
Major international forums like IAC play a central role in shaping this future.
Looking Ahead
IAC 2029 represents more than a destination – it represents a moment.
A moment where:
- humanity returns to the Moon
- commercial space becomes fully operational
- planetary defence becomes a global priority
- and access to space expands to new nations
The opportunity is to ensure that this moment is inclusive, coordinated, and impactful.
Learn More and Support the Campaign
To understand more about the campaign and how to get involved, visit: American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics – IAC 2029 Houston
From my perspective, this work is about more than a successful bid.
It is about helping shape how the global space community:
- collaborates
- grows
- and includes new voices
Through Indo-Pacific Space, I am committed to supporting initiatives that expand access, strengthen international partnerships, and position space as a domain that benefits all.
IAC 2029 Houston is not just about where the world meets – it is about who gets to be part of the future of space.
By Lisa Vitaris
Founder & CEO, Indo-Pacific Space