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Islamabad: Pakistan has taken center stage in the global scientific arena as it hosts the International Conference on Applications of Space Science and Technology (ICAST 2025)—one of the largest and most significant space conferences of the year—held in Islamabad.
The prestigious event, organized by SUPARCO in collaboration with Islamabad Space & Technology (IST), is being held from 18 to 20 November and represents a major step forward in Pakistan’s advancement in space science and technology.
ICAST 2025 features 10 specialized domains and 60 research presentation sessions, showcasing over 200 research papers from around 16 countries, including Pakistan. In addition, 13 industry-focused workshops on space applications are scheduled, offering practical insights into how space technologies can drive industrial innovation.
The conference also includes six thematic plenary sessions led by distinguished experts from 21 countries, who are highlighting the transformative role of space technologies in strengthening national economies, enhancing industrial output, and improving public services.
A key objective of ICAST 2025 is to demonstrate the immense potential of space and allied technologies for the development of Pakistan’s industries, businesses, communities, and society at large. With its growing global outreach, IST is presenting cutting-edge space-related technologies and research contributions aimed at improving quality of life and advancing scientific progress for humanity.
The participation of international delegates has created new opportunities for collaboration and investment in Pakistan’s emerging space sector. Discussions at the conference span satellite technology, artificial intelligence applications, joint research initiatives, capacity building, and technology exchange.
These global partnerships and technological dialogues are expected to play a crucial role in accelerating Pakistan’s scientific development, enabling collaborative projects that will strengthen national capabilities in the space domain.
One of Pakistan’s leading industrial figures, Mr. Zubair Motiwala, Chairman of the Businessmen Group and Patron-in-Chief of KCCI, graced the conference with his presence. He expressed pleasant surprise at the diversity of space technologies exhibited—many of which hold significant potential for Pakistan’s industrial sectors.
