CEBU CITY, PHILIPPINES — The Philippines’ growing space science and astronomy community converged in Cebu as the 2nd Philippine Space Science and Astronomy Research Conference (PSSARC 2026) was held from August 3 to 5, 2026 at the University of San Carlos–Talamban Campus.
Carrying the theme “Under One Sky: Expanding Horizons Together,” the three-day conference brought together researchers, educators, students, industry professionals, government representatives, and space enthusiasts to share research, exchange ideas, and strengthen collaboration in Philippine space science and astronomy.
Organized by the Philippine Space Science and Astronomy Research, Inc. (PSSAR, Inc.) and the University of San Carlos (USC), the conference featured the participation of key institutions including the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) and industry partners. The event also highlighted the growing role of Cebu as a venue for conversations on science, technology, innovation, and national development.
The conference explored a wide range of topics across four major areas: Space Science; Astronomy and Astrophysics; Space Science and Astronomy for Development; and Space Science and Astronomy for Outreach and Education.
Discussions covered areas such as space weather, planetary science, astrophysics, space exploration, space technology, disaster risk reduction, agriculture, marine applications, digital connectivity, satellite mapping, science communication, STEM education, and citizen science.
Among the featured speakers was Dr. Joel Joseph S. Marciano Jr., Vice-President for Research and Innovation of the University of the Philippines System, who discussed the country’s development in space science and technology and the continuing journey from initiatives such as Diwata-1 toward a stronger Philippine space ecosystem.
The event also featured international perspectives on the role of astronomy in sustainable development, including a plenary presentation by Dr. Joyful Elma Mdhluli, further underscoring the conference’s goal of connecting Philippine researchers with the broader global scientific community.
Opening the conference were Fr. Francisco Antonio T. Estepa, SVD, PhD, President of the University of San Carlos, and Dr. Gay Jane Perez, Acting Director of the Philippine Space Agency, who highlighted the importance of collaboration between academic institutions and government agencies in advancing space science in the Philippines.
Beyond plenary discussions, PSSARC 2026 featured research presentations, parallel scientific sessions, poster presentations, workshops, and networking activities. These provided researchers and students with opportunities to present their work while encouraging new partnerships across disciplines and institutions.
The conference also extended its activities to the wider astronomy community through Astronomy on Tap Manila Goes to Cebu, which featured accessible discussions on topics including astrobiology in film and exoplanets.
More than a gathering for astronomy enthusiasts, PSSARC 2026 highlighted how space science can contribute to practical challenges on Earth. From disaster preparedness and environmental monitoring to agriculture, connectivity, education, and national development, space-based technologies continue to offer opportunities for the Philippines to address pressing societal needs.
The conference’s presence in Cebu likewise reflects the city’s growing contribution to the country’s science, technology, and innovation landscape. By bringing researchers, students, government agencies, and industry stakeholders together in the region, PSSARC 2026 created a platform for Cebu and the Visayas to participate more actively in conversations shaping the Philippines’ future in space science.
With its message of collaboration under one shared sky, PSSARC 2026 reinforced the importance of building a stronger and more connected Philippine space science community—one that advances research, develops talent, encourages innovation, and uses science and technology to contribute to national progress.
