Defining the Criteria for Emerging Space Countries within the International Astronautical Federation (IAF): A Framework for Cost Reduction and Inclusion

Roman-Gonzalez A.; Chávez G.; Ojeda O.; Arteaga S.; Vargas-Cuentas N.I. · Proceedings of the International Astronautical Congress, IAC (2025) · DOI: 10.52202/083107-0003

Resumen

The International Astronautical Federation (IAF) plays a key role in promoting global development and cooperation in aerospace technology. Through its congresses, conferences, and academic activities, the IAF drives the advancement of knowledge and innovation in the space sector. However, high registration and participation costs for these events represent a significant barrier for researchers, students, and professionals from developing countries, limiting their access to key opportunities for collaboration and learning in the international aerospace community. Although initiatives have been proposed to reduce registration costs for these countries, their implementation has been hampered by the absence of a standardized criterion defining which countries can be considered as "developing countries" within the context of the IAF. In this regard, the present proposal seeks to establish a clear and equitable framework based on economic, technological, and scientific criteria to identify these countries objectively. The study will analyze various methodologies used by international organizations to classify developing countries and will propose an approach tailored to the aerospace sector. The application of these criteria will allow the implementation of differentiated rates at events organized by the IAF, encouraging greater inclusion and participation of emerging countries. As a result, it is expected to contribute to the democratization of access to knowledge in the space field, promoting global cooperation and strengthening the capabilities of countries with growing economies within the aerospace community. Copyright

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Tecnológica de Lima Sur; Universidad de Ciencias y Humanidades