Global space leaders to converge in Bengaluru for the next-generation dialogue on spacecraft operations, AI, and space sustainability
NFAPost, Bengaluru: As India’s space ecosystem accelerates toward self-reliance and international leadership, Bengaluru — the nation’s space capital — is set to host the International Conference on Spacecraft Mission Operations (SMOPS-2026) from April 8 to 10, 2026. Themed “Innovative Operations for Smart and Sustainable Space Mission Management – Next Generation”, the conference promises to be a landmark event connecting global visionaries from space agencies, startups, defense organizations, and academia.
A Global Platform for the Future of Space Operations
The primary objective of SMOPS 2026 is to foster collaboration and synergy among stakeholders in the space domain — both within India and internationally. Organized under the aegis of ISRO, DRDO, and IN-SPACe, the event aims to explore emerging technologies, operational challenges, and forward-looking strategies to make future space missions more secure, efficient, and sustainable.
“This conference is not just a meeting of minds — it’s a roadmap for the next generation of mission operations,” said Dr. V. Narayanan, Secretary, Department of Space and Chairman, ISRO. “We are entering an era where artificial intelligence, autonomy, and sustainability will define how humanity explores space.”
Key Themes and Tracks
The conference will feature a diverse set of themes reflecting the rapidly evolving landscape of space technology and mission design. These include:
- Present and Future Trends in Spacecraft Operations and Mission Design
- Human Spaceflight Mission Operations Management
- Ground System Engineering and Robotics-Based Exploration
- Cybersecurity in Space Systems and Countermeasures
- Operation Challenges in Geostationary Missions
- Satellite Constellation Management
- AI for Lunar and Interplanetary Missions
- Space Sustainability and Regulations
- Indian Space Policy for Start-ups
According to Smt. Nandini Harinath, Deputy Director of SpOA, ISTRAC and Member-Secretary of the organizing committee, the event’s inclusive agenda is designed to “bring together the operational, technical, and policy communities under one umbrella — ensuring India continues to play a leading role in the global dialogue on sustainable space missions.”
A Roadmap Towards 2026
The timeline leading up to SMOPS 2026 has been carefully structured to engage the research and industry community:
- Extended Abstract Submission: Open now
- Last Date for Abstract Submission: July 30, 2025
- Acceptance Notification: October 10, 2025
- Final Paper Submission Begins: December 20, 2025
- Registration Opens: October 20, 2025
- Official Announcement: September 25, 2025
- Conference: April 8–10, 2026
Steered by India’s Top Scientific Leadership
The conference boasts a high-powered patronage and organizing committee, including:
- Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Chairman, DRDO
- Dr. Pawan Goenka, Chairman, IN-SPACe
- Shri M. Sankaran, Director, URSC (Chairman, Organizing Committee)
- Dr. Prakash Chauhan, Director, NRSC
- Dr. Anil Kumar, Director, ISTRAC
- Air Vice Marshal Pawan Kumar VM, DG, DSA
- and several distinguished scientists and space technologists from ISRO, IN-SPACe, and the defense sector.
Bridging Academia, Industry, and Policy
In a statement from the organizing committee, the event was described as “a catalyst for innovation and collaboration — a platform where the brightest minds in space operations converge to define strategies that will make the next decade of space exploration more inclusive, secure, and sustainable.”
As the world faces new challenges in orbital congestion, cybersecurity, and interplanetary exploration, SMOPS 2026 stands poised to reaffirm India’s leadership in shaping a smarter and safer space future.
For more details, visit https://smops.asindia.org
