Pakistan has taken an important step forward in space science and technology with the launch of the International Conference on Applications of Space Science and Technology 2025 (ICAST-2025), which is being promoted as one of the region’s biggest gatherings of its kind. Geo News +2 and Icast.pk each provided updates.
Attracting Attention
Held from November 18-20 at Islamabad’s Institute of Space Technology (IST), this conference is co-organized by Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and IST, making an appearance worthy of note on Arab News’ agenda.
ICAST-2025 will bring together scientists, astronauts, policymakers, industry experts and academics from more than 25 nations for an event with over 70 international delegates from 25 different nations. Organised by News International.
At its focus, this conference explores how space-based solutions such as satellite imagery, remote sensing, geospatial analytics and communications infrastructure can aid climate resilience, agriculture production, disaster management and economic expansion. By Geo News;
Program Highlights ICAST-2025 features eight main thematic tracks covering areas such as astronomy and astrophysics, remote sensing and GIS, positioning/navigation systems, information/communication technologies, aeronautics and space law. In addition, The News International will host its annual Satellite Award Ceremony during this conference.
An exhibition and poster session feature on-going research projects, startup innovations and space industry prototypes.
One of the highlight events will be “Meet the Astronauts Forum,” featuring astronauts from Mongolia and Turkiye who will engage with students and members of the public, sharing their space flight experience while inspiring future space professionals.
Mongolian astronaut Gurragchaa Jugder Demid emphasized the international nature of space science during his keynote address, noting how “science transcends borders and collaboration is key for human progress.”
News International’s Strategic Importance for Pakistan
Hosting the ICAST-2025 conference marks Pakistan’s desire to grow its role within the global space community and strengthen its indigenous capabilities. SUPARCO Chairman Muhammad Yousaf Khan highlighted how this conference symbolizes Pakistan’s determination to use space technologies for social development, economic stability, climate resilience and disaster preparedness purposes.
Geo News
Pakistan has made strides toward becoming an innovator in Earth-observation satellite development over recent years and established partnerships with international space agencies. This conference serves to underscore those developments while positioning Pakistan as a regional center of space science cooperation. Arab News
International Collaboration and Future Pathways.
At this conference, collaboration among emerging space nations is at the core of its discussions. Organisations such as Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization (APSCO), Inter-Islamic Network on Space Sciences and Technology (ISNET), Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ICESCO), and Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) will all play roles. Geo News will cover this event live.
MoUs with countries including Bangladesh, Senegal, Tunisia and Iraq will likely be signed to facilitate joint research projects, knowledge-sharing opportunities, capacity building strategies and open data frameworks. Arab News
Challenges and Considerations for MoU Signings
Though the conference marks an important step, translating dialogue to action remains essential. Pakistan faces the challenge of increasing investments in space infrastructure and training scientific staff while expanding industry partnerships; maintaining international cooperation will require long-term commitments and follow-through on research goals and operational strategies.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s participation at ICAST-2025 as the host of the largest regional space science conference to date elevates Pakistan’s space agenda and strengthens scientific diplomacy. Over the course of these four days, attendees hope that concrete partnerships, research projects, and new technologies will emerge – not just talk but tangible progress that marks Pakistan’s journey into space science; for the region as a whole this conference provides a forum in which to shape a future where space science becomes accessible to all.