Event Overview

The 23rd National Space Science Symposium (NSSS) will be held from February 23rd to 27th, 2026, in Umiam, Shillong, Meghalaya. This biennial event is organized by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and hosted by the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC).

NSSS primarily caters to researchers in atmospheric, space, and planetary sciences. The symposium also showcases ISRO's exploration and space science missions. It will feature six parallel scientific sessions, public lectures, and exhibitions.

The symposium aims to foster young scientific minds and promote space science research. It provides a platform for experts, students, and industry professionals to interact and share knowledge.

Location and Accessibility

The symposium will be held in Umiam, located approximately 15 km north of Shillong. Umiam is known for its scenic beauty and the Umiam Lake (Barapani Lake). The venue, NESAC, is easily accessible by road from Guwahati.

Shillong is well-connected by air, road, and rail (via Guwahati Railway Station). The nearest airport is Umroi Airport, offering limited regional connectivity. Guwahati International Airport, about 128 km from Shillong, provides broader national and international access.

Regular taxi and bus services are available between Guwahati Railway Station, Guwahati International Airport, and Shillong/Umiam. The climate in Shillong during February is generally pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C.

Symposium Highlights and Scientific Sessions

NSSS 2026 will feature plenary sessions, interdisciplinary talks, and public lectures by eminent scientists. There will also be industry and student sessions, parallel sessions, and poster presentations. An industry and space exhibition will also be held.

The scientific sessions include Space-Based Meteorology, Middle Atmosphere, Solar and Planetary Sciences, Astronomy and Astrophysics, and Enabling Technologies for Space Exploration. A dedicated student session (PS6) will provide a platform for students to present their research.

The sessions will cover a wide range of topics, including climate change, atmospheric dynamics, Sun-Earth connections, planetary missions, and space exploration technologies. These sessions aim to encourage active participation in space science.

Registration Information

Early bird registration closes on December 31, 2025. Standard registration closes on February 15, 2026. On-the-spot registration will be available from February 23–27, 2026.

Registration fees vary depending on the category and registration date. Early bird registration fees are ₹6000 for all delegates, ₹5000 for accompanying persons, and ₹3000 for PS6 students. Standard and on-the-spot registration fees are higher.

The registration fee includes lunch, welcome reception, gala dinner, tea, and snacks. The registration link for the event is www.nsss2026.in.

Important Dates and Outreach Program

Abstract submission starts on July 15, 2025, with the last date for submission being September 15, 2025. Decisions on abstract acceptance will be communicated by November 15, 2025.

As part of NSSS 2026, a comprehensive Outreach Programme will be conducted. This program includes a special student session, public lectures, and webcasts across India. One-day outreach events will be held across the North Eastern Region (NER).

A dedicated idea submission process will invite students to share their creative thoughts and innovations. Selected entries will be allowed to participate in the main NSSS 2026 event.

Contact Information

For any queries, please contact Dr. Shyam S Kundu, Organizing Secretary, NSSS-2026. You can reach them via email at nsss2026.nesac@gmail.com or by phone at 0364-2308740 or +91-9436703241.

For more information, please visit the website: www.nsss2026.in.