#UnderOneSky: Expanding Horizons Together

Philippine Space Science and Astronomy Research Conference 2026

Aug. 3–5, 2026 | University of San Carlos – Talamban Campus, Cebu City

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Registration Ends July 10

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Under One Sky: Expanding Horizons Together

Every successful take-off requires a solid foundation. Before we can reach beyond the atmosphere, we must first strengthen the ground beneath us through unified, collective effort.

It is with this foundational spirit that PSSARC 2026 gathers under the theme, Under One Sky: Expanding Horizons Together (Sa Iisang Kalangitan, Sama-samang Tuklasin ang Hangganan ng Kalawakan).

This theme serves as a powerful reminder that progress in space science is never built in isolation. Instead, it is the direct product of shared knowledge, collective ambition, and a community deeply willing to invest in one another. By looking up at the same sky, we break down geographic boundaries to remind ourselves that building a stronger Filipino scientific ecosystem is a shared responsibility.

While we proudly open our doors to international speakers and global abstract submissions, our primary mission remains centered on empowering our local scientific community. These international exchanges serve as a vital bridge, connecting our home-grown talent directly to the global frontier of space exploration. When we work together, we unlock the very possibilities that carry us further as a nation, proving that our journey to the stars begins with the community we build on the ground.

Venue

University of San Carlos – Talamban Campus
Cebu City, Philippines | Aug. 3-5, 2026

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Conference Themes

Space Sciences

  • Space Weather
  • Planetary Geology
  • Atmospheric Science
  • Space Exploration and Utilization
  • Microgravity
  • Heliophysics and Solar Science
  • Space Radiation Effects
  • Rocket and Spacecraft Building

Astronomy and Astrophysics

  • Galaxy formation and evolution
  • Stellar astrophysics
  • Black hole astrophysics
  • Multi-messenger astrophysics
  • Cosmology
  • Theoretical and particle astrophysics
  • Gravitational wave astrophysics
  • Planetary astrophysics
  • High-energy astrophysics
  • Astrochemistry
  • Astrobiology

Space Science and Astronomy for Development

  • Space Weather
  • Planetary Geology
  • Atmospheric Science
  • Space Exploration and Utilization
  • Microgravity
  • Heliophysics and Solar Science
  • Space Radiation Effects
  • Rocket and Spacecraft Building

Space Science and Astronomy for Outreach and Education

  • Science Communication
  • Sociology and Public Policy
  • Curriculum Development
  • STEM Education and Outreach
  • Citizen Science in Astronomy
  • Human Ecology and Development Studies
  • Digital Media & E-Learning
  • Ethnoastronomy 
  • Planetarium & Exhibit Design 
  • Professional Development in Space Education
  • Education Leadership and Program Development

Program

View Program Agenda
View Event Primer

Plenary Speakers

Please click the photo to view speaker information

Space Science

Dr. Joel Joseph Marciano Jr.

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Dr. Marciano Jr. served as founding Director General of the Philippine Space Agency from 2020 to 2025. Under his leadership, PhilSA grew to over 200 personnel.

He holds a PhD from the University of New South Wales and is a full professor at the University of the Philippines Diliman. He led the Diwata and Maya satellite programs and brings over 30 years of research and innovation experience. He currently serves as UP Vice President for Research and Innovation.

Dr. Joel Joseph Marciano Jr.
Philippine Space Agency

Astronomy & Astrophysics

Dr. Tomotsugu Goto

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Dr. Goto is a professor of Astronomy at National Tsing Hua University, with a PhD in Physics from the University of Tokyo and fellowships at the University of Hawaiʻi and the Niels Bohr Institute. He was part of the JAXA team that launched the AKARI infrared space telescope in 2006.

His research spans galaxy evolution, supermassive black holes, dark energy, and cosmic star formation. With over 100 peer-reviewed publications, he ranks among Stanford/Elsevier’s Top 2% Scientists globally (2021–2025), placing second among astronomers in Taiwan.

Dr. Tomotsugu Goto
National Tsing Hua University

Astronomy & Astrophysics

Dr. Eckhard Sturm

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Dr. Sturm is a senior scientist and project leader in the Infrared/Submillimeter Astronomy group at the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics, Germany. He holds a German Diplom in Physics and a PhD in Astrophysics from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich.

His research focuses on extragalactic astronomy and infrared spectroscopy of galaxy evolution, starbursts, and active galactic nuclei. He has led the data and instrument development pipelines for space platforms, such as the Herschel Space Observatory and the MICADO instrument on the forthcoming Extremely Large Telescope. He has accumulated over 41,800 citations with a D-index of 111 on Research.com.

Dr. Eckhard Sturm
Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics

Space Science & Astronomy for Development

Dr. Joyful Elma Mdhluli

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Dr. Mdhluli is the flagship coordinator at the International Astronomical Union’s Office of Astronomy for Development, leading projects that use astronomy to advance community development, economic empowerment, mental well-being, and skills growth. She oversees strategic planning, project implementation, and stakeholder engagement across diverse initiatives.

She contributes to astronomy and science communication in Africa through leadership roles with the African Astronomical Society and Women in Physics in South Africa, and serves as regional editor of the African Physics Newsletter and one of the editors of the Communicating Astronomy with the Public Journal.

Dr. Joyful Elma Mdhluli
International Astronomical Union’s Office of Astronomy for Development

Space Science and Astronomy for Outreach and Education

Dr. Matipon Tangmatitham

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Dr. Tangmatitham holds degrees from Cornell University and a doctorate in theoretical astrophysics from Michigan Technological University. Since 2012, he has worked as a science communicator at the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand and now serves as Director of the International Training Centre in Astronomy under the auspices of UNESCO.

His work advances astronomy popularization and science communication in Thailand, supporting science education, strengthening public engagement with astronomy, and promoting scientific literacy across diverse communities.

Dr. Matipon Tangmatitham
National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand

Space Science and Astronomy for Outreach and Education

Ms. Cintia Durán

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Ms. Durán is a Mexican educator, science communicator, artist, and researcher serving as international outreach officer at the International Astronomical Union’s Office for Astronomy Outreach.

Her work sits at the intersection of astronomy, culture, education, and public engagement, with a focus on inclusive communication, cultural astronomy, accessibility, and diverse knowledge systems. She develops educational initiatives combining astronomy, geosciences, art, and participatory approaches. With over 15 years of experience leading community-based projects in Mexico, she now coordinates international outreach and research initiatives worldwide.

Ms. Cintia Durán
International Astronomical Union

Invited Speakers

To be announced soon

Scientific Organizing Committee

Dr. Reinabelle C. Reyes
Philippine Space Agency

Dr. Izrael Zenar C. Bautista
Philippine Space Agency

Dr. Jasmine Albelda
Philippine Space Agency
Dr. Ruby Ann B. Dela Cruz
Rizal Technological University
Dr. Alfredo Alcantara, Jr.
Philippine Space Biosciences Society, Inc.
Dr. Ernest P. Macalalad
Philippine Space Agency
Dr. Andreia Carrillo
Philippine Space Agency
Dr. Jan Tristram A. Acuña
University of the Philippines Diliman

Local Organizing Committee

Daryl Joe Santos, PhD
De La Salle University
Mark Angelo Purio, PhD
Adamson University
Dylan Josh Lopez
De La Salle University
Kristine Jane Atienza
Space Nutrition Network
Harlee Quizzagan
Space Generation Advisory Council
Xavier Bacalla, PhD
University of San Carlos
DC Lou Belle Arimang
University of Southern Mindanao
Josh Judilla
Cebu Technological University

Partners and Sponsors

To be announced soon

View Sponsorship Primer

Frequently Asked Questions

Are walk-ins allowed?

Walk-ins are allowed for conference registration only. However, to guarantee your slot and receive smooth access to all event materials, we highly recommend registering online ahead of time.

Are graduate students (Master’s/Doctorate) considered students or professionals when selecting tickets?

Graduate students qualify for student pricing. To avail of this rate, please ensure you can provide valid proof of enrollment, such as a current school ID or a Certificate of Registration.

Will there be an online stream of the event?

No. PSSARC is designed as a fully immersive, in-person experience to foster deep networking, collaboration, and hands-on engagement. There will be no online streaming options distributed, so we highly recommend securing your travel plans and registering on time.

Is there an age limit?

There is no strict age limit. However, because the scientific sessions cover complex, interdisciplinary topics, we highly recommend that conference participants have at least completed or are currently enrolled in Senior High School.

Is the conference open for international participants?

Yes, absolutely. PSSARC is global in scope. International delegates, researchers, and participants who are eager to collaborate with the Philippines’ growing space science and astronomy community are warmly encouraged to attend and share their work.


Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Units

PSSARC is committed to supporting licensed professionals and educators in their capacity-building and career advancement. Participants intending to file for CPD credit units through self-directed learning may request a comprehensive documentation packet from the organizing team to support their application.

What We Provide:

To assist with your submission, we will readily provide the necessary supporting documents upon request, including:

  • Official Certificate of Participation (stating the total earned hours)
  • Comprehensive Program Flow and Timeline
  • Speaker Profiles and Credentials

Important Guidelines:

  • Filing Fees: Any processing or filing fees required by the Professional Regulation Commission shall be shouldered by the applicant.
  • Narrative Reports: Narrative reports, if required, must be personally written and submitted by the participant. We may provide a summary of events to serve as a guide when you draft your report.

Target Professions:

  • Electronics and Communication Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Geodetic Engineering
  • Geology
  • Education (Licensed Professional Teachers)

Registration Details

Registration Period: 6 April to 10 July 2026

Early bird ends 19 June 2026

STUDENTS

EARLY BIRD RATE

PHP 1,500

PHP 1,800

PROFESSIONALS

EARLY BIRD RATE

PHP 3,500

PHP 4,000

INTERNATIONAL

EARLY BIRD RATE

USD 100

USD 150

Persons with Disabilities – 20% discount

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