The Laboratory for Space Research (LSR), Faculty of Science at The University of Hong Kong (HKU), will host the 16th Asia-Pacific Regional IAU Meeting (APRIM 2026) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from May 4 to 8, 2026, marking the first time this flagship International Astronomical Union (IAU) event will be held in the city.
Held every three years, APRIM is one of the most prestigious gatherings in global astronomy, bringing together leading scientists, policymakers, and industry players to explore developments in astrophysics, deep space exploration, and the emerging space economy. It is expected to attract participants from over 50 countries and regions, including China, the United States, Europe, Russia, and Japan.
Global Thought Leaders and Nobel-Calibre Exchange
This year's conference theme is "Science, Cooperation and Friendship – Working Together Across the Asia-Pacific Region within the IAU Framework." Keynote speaker Professor Brian SCHMIDT (2011 Nobel Laureate in Physics and President-elect of the IAU) will headline a distinguished lineup that includes Shaw Prize and Gruber Prize laureates, alongside leading astrophysicists and representatives from major global research initiatives.
An elite group of leading scholars will present the latest breakthroughs from China's national mega-science projects and global research, alongside cutting-edge developments in astrophysics. In addition, Ms Aarti HOLLA-MAINI, Director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, will address global space governance, alongside industry perspectives from international corporations.
A dedicated conference track on "Space Sustainability" will address urgent global challenges including space debris management, LEO satellite constellation planning, light pollution, orbital governance, and long-term lunar base operations. Capitalising on its distinct strength in finance, legal, and scientific research, Hong Kong will introduce solutions to drive regional consensus and cooperative mechanisms for space sustainability across the Asia-Pacific region.
APRIM 2026 will also place strong emphasis on education and outreach through the "Hong Kong Astronomy Outreach Convention". Supported by the Education Bureau, the initiative targets over 1,000 schools, offering free STEM-focused activities. Students will participate in global citizen science projects via platforms such as Zooniverse, engaging directly with real astronomical data. The programme forms part of a broader ecosystem linking education, policy, and research to cultivate future aerospace talent.
As a globally connected financial and innovation hub, Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to contribute to the rapidly evolving space sector. APRIM 2026 will serve as a platform to strengthen international partnerships, support industry development, and advance Hong Kong's role in space sustainability and NewSpace initiatives.
Professor Quentin PARKER, instigator and Chair of APRIM2026 and Director of the HKU Laboratory for Space Research said: "Hong Kong is renowned as an international financial center, but it is also poised to become a premier global hub for space sustainability. Hosting APRIM2026—a major astronomical event—offers the city a vital opportunity to capitalize on the booming global space economy, align with the new national strategy of building an 'Aerospace Powerhouse', and integrate with international development trends. As the global space sector transitions from pure scientific research to commercial industry, Hong Kong is perfectly positioned to turn this vision into tangible, transformative results."
For more details, please visit the APRIM 2026 website: https://aprim2026.org
