The 64th International Astronautical Congress opened in Beijing on September 23, 2013 and it will last until September 27. The IAC is sponsored by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), the International Institute for Space Law (IISL), the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA) and the Chinese Society of Astronautics (CSA).

The theme of this conference is “Promote Space Development for the Benefit of Mankind”. It attracts 3,600 participants from 74 countries and regions, ranging from heads of space agencies, industry executives, experts, entrepreneurs, students and space pioneers. Amongst the attendees are Buzz Aldrin, the second person to set foot on the moon, and Sandra Magnus, the female astronaut who carried out the last space shuttle mission. The leaders of space agency from the United States, Russia, China, Japan, Europe, Canada and India are also present.

Li Yuanchao, China’s Vice President and Han Qide, vice chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, attended the opening ceremony. Li Yuanchao extended a warm welcome to the participants on behalf of President Xi Jinping and Chinese government. He said, “China is willing to share the experience in space development with other countries to enhance global cooperation and peaceful use of outer space for the benefit of mankind.” 

Kiyoshi Higuchi, International Astronautical Federation (IAF) President and Ma Xingrui, Chief of China National Space Administration made speeches in the opening ceremony. 

In the opening ceremony, IAF World Space Award was given to Voyager pioneer Dr. Ed Stone and the Allan D. Emil Memorial Award was presented to Dr. Ma Xingrui.

The 64th International Astronautical Congress features seven plenary meetings, many technical symposiums and exhibitions. It received 3675 papers, a record high number.