Space Cities Network launches global collaboration
ABU DHABI, October 22, 2024
Four space-focused cities from across the globe have come together to form an international
network focused on the growth of aeronautics, space, and astronomy.
The network’s launch was announced at the International Congress and Convention
Association (ICCA) Congress in Abu Dhabi this week.
The first four cities include: Lausanne Montreux Congress – Lausanne, Switzerland (Europe); ChristchurchNZ Business Events – Christchurch, New Zealand (Oceania); Houston First Corporation – Houston, United States of America (North America); Seoul Tourism Organization – Seoul, South Korea (Asia).
This new international alliance has been designed to increase collaboration across the space
sector encompassing universities, research centres, government agencies, industry and
corporations. Knowledge sharing among public and private sectors is essential for the success
of current and future projects, fostering a thriving space community.
Space Cities Network Co-Chair, Gerald Howard from Lausanne Montreux Congress, said the group is excited to be collaborating and sharing knowledge across their regions for the next generation of space exploration.
“Space is the mirror of humanity and of our community – a quest for tomorrow. A world of exploration and innovation impacting a future that needs support and guidance. Our community, working collectively with Space experts can be one of the keystones of it, and the Space Cities Network is there to help facilitate that,” Howard says.
Space innovation, technology and exploration has become a truly collective endeavour. International space projects like Artemis offer real examples. And the forecast of the space economy just reinforces it: $1.8 trillion by 2035.
“Houston is proud to join this international network, leveraging our rich history in space
exploration to drive innovation and collaboration across the global space sector,” said Michael
Heckman, President and CEO of Houston First Corporation. “As a hub for cutting-edge research
and industry, we are committed to fostering partnerships that will propel the future of
aeronautics and space.”
The Space Cities Network will be made up of a select community of highly regarded, connected
and influential people who are locally and/or internationally recognized in their field of
expertise.
These people will be supported by destination marketing organizations from the four
participating cities, which are ready to increase and reinforce their space communities with new
bids and attract more international space conferences and events to their respective
destinations.
Claire Hector-Taylor from ChristchurchNZ Business Events and fellow Co-Chair, said: “Cities
will play an integral, legacy role as hubs for events supporting the space community, hosting
conferences, summits, and meetings that bring together industry leaders, researchers, and
policymakers.”
Jin Hyeok Park, Director of Seoul Convention Bureau says “Seoul is thrilled to be part of the
Space Cities Network, as it offers great potential for expanding business event opportunities in
the space industry. By collaborating with leading cities globally, we aim to strengthen
international connections and drive innovation. We’re eager to leverage this network to attract
more space-related events and conferences.” - TradeArabia News Service
