ASTANA — Kazakhstan is positioning itself as a Central Asian space hub as the nation expands its satellite and spacecraft capabilities and deepens regional cooperation, including discussions on a proposed Central Asia Space Agency. Space Days Kazakhstan 2026 brings together government representatives, space agencies, scientists, technology companies and investors.
Photo credit: Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of Kazakhstan The ambitions were highlighted at Space Days Kazakhstan 2026, an international forum taking place in Astana on Sept. 7–9. The event brings together government representatives, space agencies, international organizations, scientists, technology companies and investors to discuss satellite communications, Earth observation, artificial intelligence and new space technologies.
Zhaslan Madiyev, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development. Photo credit: Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of Kazakhstan Speaking at the opening, Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development Zhaslan Madiyev said Kazakhstan’s priority is to strengthen its space industry while making greater use of the country’s space infrastructure.
“Our task is to use the unique legacy of Baikonur to develop a modern and competitive space industry,” Madiyev said. Kazakhstan is currently modernizing its satellite infrastructure and expanding its capabilities in Earth observation and spacecraft manufacturing.
By 2030, the nation plans to create an international Earth remote sensing satellite constellation comprising nine spacecraft. It will include six satellites from Kazakhstan, as well as spacecraft from Mongolia, the Republic of the Congo and Nigeria. Madiyev said Kazakhstan is open to cooperation with new partners and sees potential to expand the constellation to 14 satellites.
The country is also working to replace KazSat-3 with a new KazSat-3R spacecraft to maintain the stability of Kazakhstan’s national satellite communications system and meet modern technological requirements. Photo credit: Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of Kazakhstan In July, the government allocated 10.4 billion tenge ($22.8 million) from its reserve fund for the creation of KazSat-3R.
The new spacecraft is intended to enter service as KazSat-3’s expected service life ends in 2029. At the same time, Kazakhstan is expanding its domestic space capabilities. A spacecraft assembly and testing center in Astana allows the country to build and test satellites, train engineers and participate in international space projects.