Special Events

Wednesday, September 16

Attendee Luncheon
12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.
Exhibit Hall
This event is included with all full conference, student, exhibit only, and Wednesday single day registrations. See registration desk onsite to purchase tickets for guests.

Evening Exhibit Hours
5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall

Visit this year’s exhibitors to review developments in GNSS technology, talk shop, get the specifics directly from the vendors, and learn about what has been happening in the GNSS marketplace during the past year. This event is included with any type of registration. 

Thursday, September 17

Attendee Luncheon
12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m., Key Ballroom
This event is included with all full conference, student, exhibit only and Thursday single day registrations. See registration desk onsite to purchase tickets for guests.

ION GNSS+ 40th Anniversary Trivia Night
5:30 – 8:30 p.m., Regency Hall
Join us as the ION Satellite Division celebrates 40 years of ION GNSS+ with an evening of trivia, networking, food, and fun at ION GNSS+ 2026!

Team up with your colleagues, traveling companion (aged 21+), and new conference friends and test your knowledge of the art and science of GNSS and its related technologies and history, Satellite Division milestones, and a few surprise topics along the way. Teams of up to 7 players will compete for prizes, bragging rights, and a place in ION GNSS+ history.

Expect special twists, including:

• Phone a Friend: Lifelines from Satellite Division creators
• Mystery Guests Booth: Guess which GNSS legend shares their story
• Shake-Up Rounds: Unexpected challenges to keep everyone on their toes
• Experience a uniquely American cultural phenomenon – breakfast for dinner!

Not on a team yet? No problem - you can join one onsite. Mascots, themed gear, and team spirit are encouraged! (Hint: multi-generational teams are sure to be at an advantage.)

Throughout the evening, enjoy delicious food stations, drinks, and plenty of time to network with colleagues. Whether you’re a student, young professional, or long-time member of the community, this is your chance to celebrate, connect, and have fun. Don’t miss this once-in-a-decade event!

Friday, September 18

Johannes Kepler and Bradford W. Parkinson Awards Luncheon
12:15 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Plated entree (fish). Special meals for dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, etc.) must have been ordered in advance at registration. Must be seated by 12:30 p.m. to be served.

The purpose of the Kepler Award is to honor an individual for sustained and significant contributions to the development of satellite navigation. All members of the ION are eligible. Please submit names for consideration with a supporting letter to the Satellite Division Awards Committee Chair via the ION website prior to June 30.

The Bradford Parkinson Award, which honors Dr. Parkinson for his leadership in establishing both the U.S. Global Positioning Systems and the Satellite Division of The Institute of Navigation, is given to an outstanding graduate student in the field of Global Navigation Satellite Systems. The award includes a personalized plaque and a $2,500 honorarium. Any graduate student who is an ION member and is completing a degree program with an emphasis on GNSS technology, applications, or policy is eligible. Applications must be received by June 30. See the Kepler Award Nomination Form for application requirements.

This event is included with a full, or Friday single day, conference registration. Tickets for exhibitors, students and/or guests may be purchased using the registration form in this program or by visiting the ION registration desk onsite.