India is poised to take center stage in global space dialogue as it hosts the 12th edition of the Global Space Exploration Conference (GLEX 2025) from May 7th to 9th in New Delhi. The event will be inaugurated by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, who holds independent charge of several key scientific and administrative ministries, including the Department of Space. The conference promises to be a powerful reflection of India’s growing stature in the field of space exploration.
GLEX 2025, themed “Reaching New Worlds: A Space Exploration Renaissance,” arrives at a time when India’s achievements in space science are receiving wide international recognition. Dr. Singh, in a recent media interaction, highlighted India’s journey over the last decade as a transformative story—one shaped by consistent innovation and driven by the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Minister spoke with evident pride about the country’s rapidly growing influence and leadership on the global space stage.
Organized in collaboration with the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and the Astronautical Society of India (ASI), this year’s edition of GLEX is set to be historic. The conference is welcoming more than 1800 participants, including over 230 international delegates from 36 countries. The academic response has been overwhelming, with a record 1,275 research abstracts submitted from 57 countries—822 of which came from Indian contributors. The active participation of students, who submitted 562 abstracts, speaks volumes about the enthusiasm and aspirations of the next generation of space scientists.
Attendees can look forward to a rich programme of 10 parallel technical sessions, over 240 presentations, and thought-provoking plenary discussions led by some of the most influential voices in the global space community. Among them will be dignitaries from space agencies of Europe, Japan, China, the United States, and the UAE, alongside ISRO’s own Chairman, Dr. V. Narayanan. Their presence reflects the shared commitment of the international community to work together in exploring the unknown frontiers of space.
A unique element of GLEX 2025 will be its public outreach, with a remarkable astronaut engagement programme featuring nearly 10 astronauts from across the globe, including India’s first astronaut, Rakesh Sharma. The involvement of these space pioneers is expected to inspire not only students and researchers but also the general public.
Adding to the event’s significance, Dr. Jitendra Singh will also inaugurate a dedicated space exhibition showcasing innovations from 22 major organizations, including Indian startups and international companies. This exhibition is a testament to the increasing role of private enterprise in space development and highlights the vibrant ecosystem India is nurturing.
With a blend of high-level dialogue, youth participation, and global collaboration, GLEX 2025 stands as a moment of pride for India and a beacon for the future of space exploration.
