The International Astronautical Federation has always placed diversity at its core. Since its creation, the IAF has actively engaged organizations from diverse backgrounds, fostering inclusive participation in space activities worldwide.

Over the years, the IAF has promoted various initiatives engaging its members and the space community at large and has recognized outstanding contributions to diversity emphasizing the critical dimensions of Geography, Generation, and Gender—collectively known as the 3G framework.

As part of its ongoing commitment, the IAF will once again dedicate a full day during the Spring Meetings 2026 to celebrate and promote diversity, reinforcing its mission to create a more inclusive future for the space community.

• Date: Tuesday, 24 March 2026, 08:30 – 09:30 CET (GMT+1)
• Location: Eiffel, New CAP Conference Center, Paris, France

IAF IDEA “3G+” Diversity Breakfast - 08:30 – 09:30

Panel Discussion: “The Power of Thinking Differently: Diversity as a Catalyst for Space Breakthroughs”

Innovation in space exploration thrives on fresh perspectives and unconventional thinking. This panel explores how diversity—not just in background, gender, or nationality, but in thought, experience, and approach—fuels groundbreaking discoveries and transformative solutions in the space sector. Experts from academia, industry, and international space agencies will share insights and real-world examples of how embracing different ways of thinking drives creativity, problem-solving, and technological advancement. Attendees will leave inspired to foster inclusive environments where every unique perspective has the potential to propel humanity further into the cosmos.

IAF IDEA “3G+” Diversity Luncheon - 13:00 - 14:00

Keynote “The Power of Uncommon Paths”

The space sector is built on extraordinary missions — but behind every mission is an uncommon journey.

“The Power of Uncommon Paths” is a reflective and celebratory lunch session that explores how non-linear careers, diverse life experiences, unexpected pivots, and moments of difference shape leadership, innovation, and resilience in the global space community.

While the morning panel examines diversity as a strategic advantage, this session humanizes the theme. It recognizes that breakthrough thinking does not emerge from uniform trajectories. It emerges from:

• Crossing disciplines
• Crossing borders
• Crossing generations
• Taking risks
• Challenging expectations
• Not always fitting the template

Interactive Element: The Reflection Board

At the heart of the lunch will be a collective installation:

“The difference that strengthened my journey was…”

Throughout the session, participants will be invited to write a short reflection and place it on a curated display board.

The prompt is intentionally open-ended. It invites reflection on:

• A moment of not fitting in
• A risk that changed direction
• A cultural or generational perspective
• A failure that built resilience
• A cross-disciplinary leap
• A mentor who saw potential
• An experience that shaped how they solve problems