Press Release – Global Space Leaders to Gather in Bangkok to Shape the Future of Lunar Exploration

International space leaders, policymakers, industry and researchers to gather in Bangkok to discuss the future of lunar exploration, governance and commercial development

The Moon Village Association, a non-governmental organization that aims to promote international collaboration in the exploration and settlement of the Moon, is pleased to unveil the programme for its flagship annual event, bringing together leading voices from across the global space sector in Bangkok, Thailand, on 26-27 October 2026.

Hosted in collaboration with Thailand’s Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), and taking place alongside Thailand Space Expo and Asia Pacifir Space Agency Forum (APRSAF) 2026, the symposium will explore the technologies, partnerships and governance frameworks shaping humanity’s return to the Moon – this time to stay.

The two-day programme will feature senior representatives from international organizations, governments, space agencies, industry and academia, reflecting growing momentum behind global lunar exploration efforts.

Confirmed speakers, amongst many others include:

Aarti Holla-Maini, Director, United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)
Michael Overby, Deputy Director of Space Affairs, U.S. Department of State
Wang Zhongmin, Director of the International Cooperation Center, Deep Space Exploration Laboratory (China)
Representatives from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and the Australian Space Agency
Pakorn Apaphant, Executive Director, GISTDA
COPUOS CoChairs: Ulpia Botezatu for the Action Team on Lunar Consultation Activities (ATLAC), Steven Freeland for the Space Resources Working Group
Atsushi Saiki, Executive Fellow, ispace, Inc.
Jeff Warner, Intuitive Machines Inc.
Mr. Suchart Tachaplalert, Chief Technology Officer, International Rubber Parts Co., Ltd.

Discussions will examine some of the most pressing opportunities and challenges facing the lunar sector, including international cooperation in lunar exploration; lunar infrastructure, mobility and surface operations; artificial intelligence and data interoperability for Moon missions, space resources and sustainable lunar development; lunar governance and regulatory frameworks; the growth of commercial lunar markets; capacity building across emerging space nations, particularly within ASEAN.

The programme also includes technical presentations selected through MVA’s international call for papers, covering subjects ranging from lunar habitats and robotic construction to lunar economies, science and sustainability.

The Moon Village Association is proud to have the support of leading organizations from across the global space and technology sectors for this milestone edition of the symposium. ispace, Inc. joins as Gold Sponsor, Intuitive Machines and International Rubber Parts Co., Ltd. as Silver Sponsors, and the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) as Bronze Sponsor. Their participation reflects the shared commitment to advancing international collaboration and supporting the development of a sustainable future for lunar exploration.

This year’s event marks the 10th edition of the Global Moon Village Workshop & Symposium, reflecting a decade of international collaboration through the Moon Village Association and the growing maturity of the global lunar ecosystem.

Dr. Giuseppe Reibaldi, President, MVA said:

“We are delighted to bring the Moon Village Association’s 10th Global Workshop and Symposium to Bangkok. Reaching this important milestone reflects the growing momentum behind international cooperation in lunar exploration and working toward a sustainable and collaborative future on the Moon. Bringing together experts, industry leaders and academics from around the world in Thailand provides a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, build new partnerships and shape the technologies and frameworks that will support the future of lunar exploration and development.”

The event will take place at ICONSIAM, Bangkok, on 26-27 October 2026.

Further information, registration details and streaming are available at: