World Space Week

Begun in 1999 by the United Nations, World Space Week is meant not only to encourage, educate and support space exploration, but also to celebrate each year at the international level the contributions of space science and technology to the betterment of the human condition.

World Space Week is celebrated every year from October 4 - 10. These dates were chosen for very specific reasons. The 4th of October 1957 was the date of the launch into outer space of the first human-made Earth satellite, SPUTNIK I, thus opening the way for space exploration. World Space Week closes on 10 October, the date in 1967 when the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of outer space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies entered into force.

Lance Bass

This year, Lance Bass, of the singing group NSync, has been named World Space Week 2003 Youth Spokesperson. The objective is to excite students about science, technology, and math. Students around the world are invited to enter the Lance's Lab competition during World Space Week, October 4-10, 2003. Winners get to meet Lance in spring 2004.

Benefits

There are many benefits from World Space Week, including the following:

• Education for people around the world about the benefits they receive from space
• Encourages greater use of space for sustainable economic development
• Demonstrates public support for space programs
• Excites children about learning and their future, promoting interest in education
• Promote institutions around the world that are involved in space
• Fosters international cooperation in space outreach and education

Every year World Space Week tries to encourage, educate and support space exploration throughout the world by various programs and activities centered around a central theme. This year, fifty nations are participating in the World Space Week theme of Space and Daily Life. To find out more about some of the planned events check these links:

• Locate participating organizations and events near you.

So, What Does the World Space Week Theme Mean?

The theme for World Space Week 2003 is "Space: Horizon Beyond Earth." This theme encourages World Space Week participants next year to discuss the two main activities in space, exploration and utilization. Please click here for the concept behind this year's theme.

All World Space Week participants and supporters are requested to:

• Plan World Space Week programs that address this theme
• Incorporate this theme into all of your World Space Week publicity materials
• Tell other organizations about this theme and encourage them to use it also

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 SIA Board of Directors in close coordination with the United Office of Outer Space Affairs.

Your ideas for future themes are encouraged and appreciated

So, What's In It For You?

World Space Week also provides many opportunities for educators. From educational materials (many free) to awards for teachers and schools, you will find many ways to educate and encourage students.

Of course, World Space Week is not just for teachers. Everyone is invited to participate. Whether it's just a trip to your local Imax theater to see one of the excellent space themed movies playing or attending a lecture on astronomy at a local school, you, too, can do your share.