02.10.2026
Theme: “Harnessing Space for the Benefit of Humanity”
MLA College, UK will host the 17th annual ICGS3-26 online from 17 to 18 November 2026.
This year’s conference, themed “Harnessing Space for the Benefit of Humanity,” will explore how space-based technologies, infrastructure, research and international cooperation can contribute to a safer, more secure and sustainable future for people around the world.
As dependence on space-enabled capabilities continues to grow, space plays an increasingly important role in areas including communications, navigation, Earth observation, environmental monitoring, disaster management, scientific research and economic development. At the same time, the growing use of space raises important questions around security, safety, sustainability, responsible behaviour and international cooperation.
Professor Hamid Jahankhani, General Chair of ICGS3 and Chief Academic Officer at MLA College, will join Professor Mohammad Dastbaz, Principal and CEO of MLA College, and Professor John Chudley, Rector, to welcome delegates to this year’s ICGS3-26 to discuss and exchange research ideas on these issues.
Over the last two decades, technology relating to cyberspace, including satellites, drones and UAVs, cyber security and artificial intelligence has evolved rapidly. The relationship between space, governance, AI and quantum computing is becoming one of the defining forces shaping the 21st century. Space is no longer just about exploration; it is about infrastructure and power. Satellites enable global internet connectivity, navigation (GPS), climate monitoring and defence. Countries and organisations that successfully integrate space, AI, governance and quantum computing are likely to shape future economic, military and political power.
Drawing on 16 years of successful events, the 17th ICGS3-26 provides an information-packed agenda for academics, practitioners, policymakers and global stakeholders over two virtual days.
Professor Jahankhani’s research has focused for many years on cyber security, space governance, satellites, drones, information security and digital forensics. He is Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Electronic Security and Digital Forensics and has edited and contributed to more than 40 books, as well as publishing more than 400 conference and journal papers.
Professor Jahankhani said:
“As space technologies become increasingly embedded in the way we communicate, work and respond to global challenges, it is vital that questions of security, governance and sustainability develop alongside innovation. ICGS3 brings together expertise from across academia, industry and policy makers to examine these issues from different perspectives. This year I am pleased to see Professor Dastbaz and Professor Chudley contributing through the International Steering Committee, reflecting MLA College’s commitment to engaging with some of the most important conversations shaping our future.”
The involvement of three members of MLA College’s senior academic leadership places the College within a wider international conversation about how emerging technologies are developed, governed and applied responsibly. It also reflects MLA’s growing academic contribution across sustainability, technology and future-focused disciplines alongside its established maritime expertise.
Further information about ICGS3-26 is available at https://www.icgs3-26.org/
