Under the theme of Space for Sustainable Peace and Progress, the 60th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2009 is scheduled to be held in Daejeon City, Korea, from October 12 to 16. This international meeting is hosted by Daejeon City, the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), and the International Astronautical Federation (IAF). It is managed by IAC Daejeon Organizing Committee. The organizing committee says that this international meeting will provide a momentum for international cooperation by enhancing world peace, contributing to the prosperity and welfare of humankind, and bringing space closer to the general public. In addition to these goals, IAC 2009 plans to offer many attractions, sights and amusement, and various IAC programs that will provide everyone with a memorable and wonderful experience.

Meanwhile, B. Feuerbacher, chairman of the IAF, visited Korea for a factfinding trip to Daejeon, and after he had finished his mission trip, he expressed his impression and opinions at the gathering with reporters on February 18: “Preparations for IAC 2009 have been made very well. And I have felt that Daejeon is a city of science and technology as well as a cultural city. In particular, I was deeply impressed to see the energetic and diligent activities and efforts of many people who are making preparations for this international event.” He went on say: “We have worried about traffic and lodging problems because more than 3,000 guests including experts and scholars are expected to participate in this international event, but after this fact finding tour our worry has disappeared. Not only hotels but also economical guest houses for many young students are satisfactory, and during the trip period, our team has not suffered any traffic congestion.” He also added: “This year, one of IAC's very important issues is how to connect space with global climate change. In other words, we are going to deal with the problem of how to solve global climate change through space technology.”