SATELLITE and GovMilSpace 2026 have brought together 14,738 senior leaders, decision-makers, and 515 exhibitors for SATShow Week 2026, held from March 23 to 26 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Marking its 45th edition, the event reinforced its status as a major global platform for the satellite and space industries, uniting commercial, government and military stakeholders from around the world.
Jeffrey Hill, Executive Chairman of SATELLITE and GovMilSpace, said: “As we completed our 45th edition, it was evident that SATShow Week 2026 remains the premier global gathering for our industry, and we witnessed meaningful connections, strategic business alignments, and new partnerships forged across the global space ecosystem. We introduced expanded programming and new conference tracks that attracted a high concentration of senior leadership from both commercial and government stakeholders, and the combination of public-private representation created a high-value environment for all participants. We’re grateful to the entire satellite community for helping build and shape this incredible event, and we look forward to continuing the momentum, supporting innovation and investments, and fostering long-term growth throughout the industry.”
The event featured a broad cross-section of the global space ecosystem, with companies from 36 countries participating across satellite communications, defense, and space infrastructure, alongside growing representation from sectors such as aviation, telecommunications, energy, finance, and cloud services. Of the 515 exhibitors, 117 were first-time participants, reflecting ongoing market expansion and innovation.
Attendee demographics underscored the event’s strategic focus, with 39% of participants holding C-suite or executive roles and 34% representing government and military agencies. International attendees accounted for 23% of the total, spanning more than 100 countries, while 41% were first-time participants and 24% were emerging professionals, highlighting a blend of established leadership and new talent entering the industry.
The conference featured 273 speakers and an expanded agenda designed to deepen engagement. Among the highlights, Chris Weber discussed next-generation satellite broadband and preparations for megaconstellation deployment during the Opening Day Keynote Luncheon. Other keynote sessions included Taylor Jordan addressing industry standards and mission authorization, and Bridgit Mendler presenting on rapidly deployable satellite ground infrastructure.
Fireside chats also addressed key industry themes, with Doug Abts discussing sovereign satellite communications, while Adel Al-Saleh and Ramu Potarazu explored the growing demand for direct-to-device connectivity. Minh Nguyen further highlighted regulatory developments supporting industry expansion.
The GovMilSpace programme continued to serve as a key forum for defense and national security space discussions, featuring insights from Ron Lerch on threats to space systems, alongside contributions from military and industry leaders including Nick Hague and moderator Jim Bridenstine.
The event also hosted the annual Via Satellite Awards Luncheon, recognizing industry achievements. Adel Al-Saleh was named Satellite Executive of the Year for 2025, while Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost Lunar Lander received Satellite Technology of the Year honors. The 2026 Startup Space Pitch Competition was won by Matteo Vismara, whose company focuses on high-speed optical satellite communications.
Organisers confirmed that the next edition, SATShow Week 2027, will return to Washington, D.C., from March 8 to 11, continuing the event’s role in driving collaboration, innovation, and investment across the global space industry.
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