VIENNA, AUSTRIA, 20 September 2024 – SGAC is very pleased and honoured to announce that the Italian Association of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIDAA) has been selected as the recipient of the 2024 SGAC SpaceGen Ambassador Award!

Through the SpaceGen Ambassador Award programme, SGAC wants to acknowledge organisations that deeply care for our generation, our talents, skills and needs that actively support us as the ‘next’ generation of space leaders, empower us as such and enable us to grow. The award is presented to an organisation from the space sector, either governmental, non-governmental, or private company that demonstrates genuine care for the next generation, actively supporting and empowering young space professionals and students.

AIDAA is an ideal candidate for this award due to its long history of empowering young aerospace professionals. As the second oldest aerospace society, AIDAA offers significant opportunities for young professionals to lead research and projects, aligning with SGAC’s mission. Their global events, including hosting IAC 2024, showcase and support young talent. AIDAA also promotes diversity and has been a steadfast supporter of SGAC’s activities through financial donations and expert contributions. AIDAA’s dedication to the next generation makes them deserving of this award.

“In the year of our 25th Anniversary we are delighted to give our Space Gen Ambassador Award to the Associazione Italiana di Aeronautica ed Astronautica – AIDAA – as an incredibly supportive and inspiring organisation. AIDAA really goes above and beyond to enable and empower the young generations, and we are pleased to recognise them for the high example they set for our community. We thank AIDAA for all their outstanding efforts and look forward to continuing our successful collaboration in the future” say, Antonino Salmeri and Joshua Critchley-Marrows, SGAC Co-Chairs. 

I am truly honored that the Italian Association of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIDAA) has been recognized with this prestigious award from the SGAC. This recognition underscores the important role AIDAA plays in supporting the next generation of aerospace professionals and fostering innovation in the fields of aeronautics and astronautics.AIDAA has consistently worked to create opportunities for young professionals, including our efforts to secure the Space Generation Congress to be held in the same venue as the International Astronautical Congress in Milan for the first time in many years. This is a testament to our commitment to bridging the gap between generations and empowering the leaders of tomorrow.”, says Mr. Erasmo Carrera, AIDAA President.

Nikol Koleva, SGAC Executive Director, commented on the news saying “We are deeply grateful for the incredible support AIDAA has provided to SGAC over the years. They have been a steadfast pillar for us, always offering guidance and encouragement. AIDAA truly deserves this recognition, standing as a genuine ambassador of our shared values. Their dedication to empowering young generations is unmatched, and we are honored to celebrate their ongoing commitment to our community. We congratulate them on this well-earned recognition and look forward to continuing our strong partnership.”

The 2024 SGAC SpaceGen Ambassador Award will be presented at the closing ceremony of the 22st Space Generation Congress (SGC), held on 12th October 2024, in Milan, Italy. 

About SGAC

The Space Generation Advisory Council in Support of the United Nations Programme on Space Applications is a global non-governmental, non-profit (US 501(c)3) organisation and network which aims to represent university students and young space professionals ages 18-35 to the United Nations, space agencies, industry, and academia. Headquartered in Vienna, Austria, the SGAC network of members, volunteers and alumni has grown to more than 30 000 members representing more than 165 countries.

About AIDAA

The Italian Association of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIDAA) is dedicated to advancing aeronautical and astronautical sciences and promoting the development of related technologies and knowledge in Italy.

AIDAA’s mission is to foster and promote research, innovation, and knowledge dissemination in the fields of aeronautics and astronautics. The association achieves this through organizing conferences, workshops, and competitions, providing a platform for researchers and professionals to share their findings and collaborate. Additionally, AIDAA publishes research in its journal “Aerotecnica Missili e Spazio” and collaborates with national and international organizations to advance aerospace sciences​ (IAF)​​ (UniTN Web Magazine)​.

AIDAA envisions being a leading national and international hub for aeronautics and astronautics, driving forward the frontiers of aerospace research and technology. It aims to enhance the global competitiveness of the Italian aerospace sector by supporting innovative research, fostering academic and industry partnerships, and nurturing the next generation of aerospace professionals through educational initiatives and student engagement​ (IAF)​​ (UniTN Web Magazine)​.

Nominations to the SpaceGen Ambassador Award will be open again in 2025. 

For info, please contact [email protected].