New directions for the International Astronautical Federation

This press release is distributed on behalf ot the International
Astronautical Federation
(IAF)

PRESS RELEASE
Paris, France - 28 March 2005

New directions for the International Astronautical Federation

During its semi-annual meeting last week the governing Bureau of the
International Astronautical Federation (IAF) approved plans to collect and
preserve the history of global space cooperation. These activities will be
pursued by a new committee established under the auspices of the IAF, the
International Academy of Astronautics (IAA) and the International Institute
of Space Law (IISL).

"We want to recognize and learn from the pioneers who have guided the
collaborative space programs of the past half century," IAF President James
Zimmerman observed. "It is perhaps fitting that we have taken this step on
the 100th anniversary of the passing of another visionary pioneer Jules
Verne."

The IAF Bureau also decided to enhance the internet services the Federation
provides to its 160 members in 45 countries and to consider new initiatives
that promote the interests of space industry. In addition the IAF Bureau
reviewed plans for upcoming Congresses in Japan this October, in Spain
(2006) and in India (2007). A call for proposals for the 2008 Congress will
be released on the IAF web site (www.iafastro.org ) in early April.

During a related meeting in Paris last week more than 300 participants in
the IAF's International Program Committee finalized plans for the next
International Astronautical Congress which will be held in Fukuoka, Japan
from 16 to 21 October 2005.

This 56th International Astronautical Congress - a joint undertaking of the
IAF, the IAA and the IISL - will include nine plenary events, three
highlight lectures, and 112 technical sessions containing more than 950
papers/presentations on space activities around the world. The IAF's
International Program Committee co-chaired by Professors Tetsuo Yasaka and
José Dorado also selected 200 papers for presentation in poster sessions
during the Congress. More than 2000 participants including 300 students
and young professionals are expected to attend the 56th International
Astronautical Congress. Further information on the next Congress can be
found at www.iac2005.org .


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Jacques :-)

www.spacepatches.info