S. Korea hosts global space conference

By Lee Joon-seung
DAEJEON, Oct. 12 (Yonhap) -- An annual international space congress kicked off in
South Korea on Monday, aiming to promote sustainable growth and peaceful use of
space, organizers said.

The five-day International Astronautical Congress (IAC) opened in Daejeon 164km
south of Seoul, bringing together a record 3,000 scientists, businessmen and
government policymakers from 70 countries, the Korea Aerospace Research Institute
(KARI) and Daejeon city said.
Experts will take part in highlight lectures outlining space exploration and
various technical sessions that will help plot a course for the future of space
development, they said.
A young professional program and so-called late breaking news events that can
help gauge the latest development trends in the field will also be held, with
experts to focus on the potential role of astronautical sciences to deal with
global climate change.
Reflecting the growing importance of space development, Berndt Feuerbacher, head
of the International Aeronautical Federation -- which oversees the IAC -- claimed
that despite recent economic difficulties, space-related industries have proven
their potential to grow and contribute to sustainable growth.
Others like KARI head Lee Joo-jin proposed the establishment of a "Asia-Pacific
regional group" that can facilitate coordination and bolster capabilities of
space.
Organizers, meanwhile, said senior officials from such organizations as the U.S.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration, European Space Agency, Japan
Aerospace Exploration Agency and the Chinese National Space Administration are to
be present with 150 space-related topics to be discussed.
yonngong@yna.co.kr
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