image: IUPAP President Silvina Ponce Dawson signing the MoU with COSPAR Vice-President Pietro Ubertini
Credit: COSPAR
The Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) and the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation between the two organisations and foster collaboration at the intersection of physics and space research.
The agreement builds on their complementary missions and shared commitment to advancing scientific research through international cooperation. While IUPAP promotes the development of physics across its many disciplines, COSPAR provides an international framework for scientific research in space. Their areas of common interest include astrophysics, fundamental physics in space, gravitational waves, cosmic rays, neutrinos, and the search for dark matter and antimatter. Both organizations transcend geopolitical boundaries, support global collaboration via international conferences and assemblies that ensure free circulation of scientists and support unhindered exchange of ideas across borders while maintaining scientific integrity and ethical conduct in research. Both organizations foster scientific talent in the Global South.
Pietro Ubertini, COSPAR Vice-President, said: "The importance of closer collaboration between the physics and space science communities is clear, and we are sure the MoU is the first building block for a bridge between space-based and ground scientific research. Our common goal is to improve the worldwide scientific community exchange of ideas: the opportunities this partnership will create for international scientific cooperation are invaluable."
Silvina Ponce Dawson, IUPAP President, said: "This agreement is an important step in strengthening the connections between the physics and space research communities. Many of the questions we seek to answer, from the nature of dark matter to the most extreme phenomena in the Universe, require expertise from different disciplines and international cooperation. By working more closely with COSPAR, we hope to create new opportunities for scientific exchange, support researchers at different stages of their careers, and encourage broader participation in these fields, particularly in regions where scientific capacity is still developing."
Under the MoU, the two organisations will explore and develop joint initiatives in research and education, outreach and communication, scientific community building and capacity development. They will also consider establishing joint IUPAP–COSPAR awards in space sciences and supporting regional collaborations, including initiatives that strengthen scientific capacity.
The agreement further provides for closer institutional links, including mutual opportunities for cross-representation in Commissions. By bringing together their international networks and scientific communities, COSPAR and IUPAP aim to create new opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, support the participation of researchers worldwide and advance scientific understanding of the Universe.
The MoU was signed on 20 October 2026 by COSPAR Vice-President Pietro Ubertini and by IUPAP President Silvina Ponce Dawson in Beijing, China.
COSPAR Media contact: leigh.fergus@cosparhq.cnes.fr
About COSPAR
The Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) is an international scientific organization established in 1958, under the International Science Council (ISC). Its mission is to promote cooperation in space research, with an emphasis on the exchange of scientific results, information, and the development of global partnerships across disciplines for the benefit of all.
Through its scientific Commissions, Panels and Task Groups, COSPAR covers a wide range of space science fields, including Earth observation, planetary protection, astrophysics, and space life sciences and is a trusted advisor to the United Nations on critical issues in space research. It plays a key role in fostering collaboration between the global scientific community, space agencies, industry, and emerging space nations. Through specialized capacity building workshops, it supports the growth of space science expertise worldwide. Its biennial event, the COSPAR Scientific Assembly, brings together thousands of researchers from around the world, serving as a major platform for knowledge exchange and international dialogue. A recent focus has been on strengthening ties between science and industry. This was achieved by forming the Committee on Industry Relations, which includes 16 leading aerospace companies worldwide. The Committee advises COSPAR on integrating industry capabilities into its activities, ensuring mutual benefits for both science and industry.
Website: https://cospar.world
COSPAR social media: Bluesky / Facebook / LinkedIn / YouTube / Instagram
About IUPAP
The International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP) is the only international scientific union covering all areas of physics. Established in 1922, IUPAP promotes the worldwide development of physics, fosters international scientific cooperation, and supports the application of physics to address challenges of concern to humanity.
Through its Commissions, Working Groups and Standing Committees, IUPAP encourages research, education and scientific exchange, promotes inclusiveness and diversity, and supports the free circulation of scientists across national boundaries. It also collaborates with international organizations to advance interdisciplinary research and strengthen physics communities worldwide.
Website: https://iupap.org
IUPAP social media: Facebook / LinkedIn