From the search for life on Mars and the latest discoveries by NASA’s Curiosity rover to commercial spaceflight, space geopolitics, and the technologies that will one day enable humans to settle the Red Planet, the 2026 International Mars Society Convention promises one of the most exciting and wide-ranging programs in the event’s history.

Held October 22–24 at the University of Southern California (USC), the convention will bring together leading scientists, engineers, astronauts, entrepreneurs, policymakers, students, and Mars advocates from around the world to discuss the biggest challenges—and greatest opportunities—facing humanity’s expansion into space.

Attendees will hear from an exceptional lineup of speakers, including former NASA Chief Scientist Dr. James Green on the future of planetary exploration, Dr. Ashwin Vasavada, Project Scientist for NASA’s Curiosity rover, with the latest insights from the Red Planet, SETI Institute scientist Dr. Nathalie Cabrol on the ongoing search for extraterrestrial life, NASA Chief Mars Engineer Hoppy Price on the engineering required for future human missions, Dr. Namrata Goswami on the growing geopolitical competition in space, China space program expert Kevin Pollpeter on China’s ambitions beyond Earth, and Relativity Space co-founder Tim Ellis on commercial innovation and the next generation of launch systems.

Whether you’re a longtime Mars Society member, a space professional, a student, or simply fascinated by humanity’s future beyond Earth, the 2026 Mars Society Convention offers a unique opportunity to learn from many of the world’s leading voices in Mars exploration while connecting with fellow space enthusiasts from across the globe.

Visit marssociety.org for registration, speaker announcements, and nearby hotel accommodations. Seniors and students receive discounted admission, while USC students can attend free of charge.

Those interested in submitting an abstract for consideration for the 2026 convention have until August 16th 5:00pm PT.