The World Space Week
From October 4 – 10
  This 10-year-old tradition is an
international celebration of science and technology, and their
contribution to the betterment of the human condition. The United
Nations General Assembly declared in 1999 that World Space Week will be
held each year from October 4-10. These dates commemorate two events:
•October 4, 1957 – Launch of the first human-made Earth satellite,
Sputnik 1, thus opening the way for space exploration
•October 10, 1967 – The signing of the Treaty on Principles Governing
the Activites of States in the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer
Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies.
It is fitting that, in 2009 on the 10th anniversary of UN-declared
World Space Week, the theme will be “Space for Education.”
Looking to the stars has always inspired children to wonder and
learn. Today around the world, it is a valuable tool in education.
Teachers successfully use the excitement of space to motivate students.
This educational tool has been applied not just in science and
mathematics but in history, language arts, and virtually every subject.
A myriad of educational materials incorporating space are available,
including on www.worldspaceweek.org.
 Each year’s theme provides broad guidance to World Space Week
participants on the content of their programs. The theme is selected to
increase the impact of World Space Week on all humanity. Further, by
using a uniform theme globally, World Space Week demonstrates
unprecedented global cooperation in space. The theme is selected by the
World Space Week Association Board of Directors in close coordination
with the UN Office of Outer Space Affairs. The World Space Week
Association is a non-government, non-profit organization which is
supported by national coordinators in over 50 nations.
It is led by an all volunteer Board of Directors including Tom Hanks,
Buzz Aldrin, Bill Nye, and space leaders from around the world.
Government agencies, industry, non-profit organizations, teachers, or
even individuals organize events to celebrate space. This week is
coordinated by the United Nations with the support of World Space Week
Association.
Educating people on around the world about the benefits they receive
from space, encouraging greater use of space for sustainable economic
development, demonstrating public support for space programs,
encouraging children about learning and their future, promoting
institutions around the world that are involved in space and fostering
international cooperation in space outreach and education are some of
the benefits of having a World Space Week. |
