The International Astronautical Federation has named Chinese Academy of Sciences Academician Guo Huadong as the 2026 recipient of its Hall of Fame Award, recognizing his lifelong contributions to space science and the use of space technology to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The IAF Hall of Fame Award honors top scholars who have made pioneering and lifelong contributions to global space progress and is widely regarded as one of the field's highest honors. This year's award was presented on Friday at the closing ceremony of the 77th International Astronautical Congress in Türkiye.
A key achievement cited in Guo's selection was his role as chief scientist of SDGSAT-1, the world's first science satellite dedicated to monitoring progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The satellite pioneered the characterization of human activity traces from space by integrating daytime and nighttime observations of visible light, thermal infrared, and hyperspectral signals, delivering systematic and objective data to support assessments across multiple SDGs.
Speaking at the awarding ceremony, Guo emphasized China's commitment to peaceful and inclusive uses of space.
"This honor belongs to my team and all Chinese researchers committed to space science. Space exploration is a common course for all humanity. We uphold the peaceful use of all the space and space inclusiveness," he said.
In line with the congress's call for fair, sustainable space exploration and shared space resources, data from the SDGSAT-1 have been made freely available worldwide, creating a new model for global access to Chinese satellite data.
"This Chinese satellite is a science satellite. As long as there is demand, we will provide the data free of charge," Guo said.
He added that he hopes the research will benefit more countries and peoples.
"As of today, 121 countries have used this satellite. It has played a major role in conducting monitoring for the Sustainable Development Goals," he noted.
In addition to the awarding ceremony, Chinese space professionals have showcased a range of innovations and international cooperation practices at the congress, with many of China's younger scientists taking the center stage. Looking ahead, Guo expressed high hopes for the next generation.
"I look forward to our young people growing up quickly, so that more, faster, deeper and higher space science and technology will be born in their hands," he said.
Chinese scientist Guo Huadong receives top award in space science for sustainability work
