IIST participated in the 9th Bengaluru Space Expo 2026, held from 7 to 9 September 2026 in Bengaluru.  IIST was represented through a dedicated exhibition stall showcasing the institute’s academic programmes, space research activities, aerospace technologies and innovations developed on campus.  The stall showcased various aerospace technologies, research activities and innovations with particular emphasis on the work and capabilities of the Small-Spacecraft systems and Payload Centre (SSPACE) and the Satellite Ground Station Laboratory.   The stall attracted significant attention from prominent dignitaries and stakeholders from the space sector.  Dr. V. Narayanan, Secretary DOS / Chairman, ISRO, and Dr. Pawan Kumar Goenka, Chairman, IN-SPACe, visited the IIST stall and interacted with the team.  The stall was also visited by experts from the defence sector, space leaders from across the globe, students, researchers and space enthusiasts.

The participation provided IIST a valuable platform to showcase its technological capabilities, research strengths and academic programmes to the national and international space community.  It also facilitated interactions with industry representatives, technology developers and other stakeholders, thereby creating opportunities for future collaborations, knowledge exchange and technology partnerships.

A ten-member delegation represented IIST at the event, led by Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dipankar Banerjee, who attended the expo as a special invitee.  The institute's delegation included Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kuruvilla Joseph, along with faculty members Dr V. Aravind, Dr Priyadarshan Hari, and Dr Raveendranath P.  To showcase research and innovation, two project associates and two student delegates also participated as exhibitors.