The celebrations of World Space Week (WSW) kicked on October 4, 2020 in more than 70 countries around the world. The celebrations will continue until October 10, 2020 with people around the world celebrating science and technology and their effect on human life.
The United Nations General Assembly declared in 1999 that World Space Week (WSW) will be held each year from October 4 till 10. The dates were in recognition of the October 4, 1957 launch of the first human-made Earth satellite, Sputnik 1, thus opening the way for space exploration and the October 10, 1967 signing of 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.
The main focus of this year’s World Space Week celebration is the satellites and their great benefits. World Space Week will be observed globally to celebrate and inspire interests in space. In addition, several African countries will be celebrating the contributions of space sciences and technology. This year will be dedicated to satellites and their benefits under the umbrella theme: Satellites improve life.
According to the UN Office of Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) World Space Week will highlight all the ways in which satellites can change the world for the better. “With this theme, the World Space Week will show the importance of satellites in daily life and how our lives are affected by satellites; in communications, environmental monitoring, transportation, weather forecasting, telemedicine, science, and in many other ways.”
World Space Week is an international celebration of science and technology, and their contribution to the betterment of the human condition. World Space Week aims to:
· Provide unique leverage in space outreach and education.
· Educate people around the world about the benefits that they receive from space.
· Encourage greater use of space for sustainable economic development.
· Demonstrate public support for space programs.
· Excite young people about science, technology, engineering, and math.
· Foster international cooperation in space outreach and education.
