IAF Global Award for Academic & Scientific Top Research Achievement: IAF ASTRA Award 2026

For the very first year, the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) is pleased to introduce the IAF Global Award for Academic and Scientific Top Research Achievement (IAF ASTRA Award). The IAF ASTRA Award is a unique and prestigious recognition intended to celebrate World High-Level Academicians and Researchers who distinguish themselves through outstanding contributions and achievements in scientific fields in the space sector. It will be presented during the IAC 2026 Opening Ceremony on Monday, 5 October 2026.

The IAF Global Award for Academic and Scientific Top Research Achievement: IAF ASTRA Award 2026 is bestowed to Scott Pace

Dr. Scott Pace is the Director of the Space Policy Institute, Director of the Institute for International Science and Technology Policy, Director of the MA in International Science and Technology Policy program and Professor of the Practice of International Affairs at the George Washington University's Elliott School of International Affairs. He is also a member of the faculty of the Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration. His research interests include civil, commercial, and national security space policy, and the management of technical innovation.

Dr. Pace rejoined the faculty of the Elliott School of International Affairs in 2021 after serving as Deputy Assistant to the President and Executive Secretary of the National Space Council from 2017-2020. He previously served as the Associate Administrator for Program Analysis and Evaluation at NASA from 2005-2008 and Deputy Chief of Staff for the NASA Administrator from 2002-2003. Prior to NASA, he was the Assistant Director for Space and Aeronautics in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. From 1993-2000, he worked for the RAND Corporation's Science and Technology Policy Institute, and from 1990-1993, he served as the Deputy Director and Acting Director of the Office of Space Commerce, in the Office of the Deputy Secretary of the Department of Commerce. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from Harvey Mudd College in 1980; Masters degrees in Aeronautics & Astronautics and Technology & Policy from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1982; and a Doctorate in Policy Analysis from the RAND Graduate School in 1989.