The United Nations (UN)’s World Space Week (WSW) is annually observed across the globe from 4th to 10th of October to motivate and unite people worldwide, emphasizing the strong collaboration between space technology and climatic science.
- World Space Week 2024 highlights the vital role of satellites and space technology in tracking environmental changes and developing strategies to reduce the effects of climate change.
Theme:
The theme of World Space Week 2024 is “Space and Climatic Change”.
i.The theme highlights the transformative impact of space technology in our fight against climate change and shows how space exploration improves our ability to understand and manage Earth’s climate.
ii.Each year, the World Space Week Association (WSWA) Board of Directors chooses a theme that reflects the purpose and objectives of the upcoming World Space Week
Background:
i.In December 1999, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the resolution A/RES/54/68 and proclaimed 4th to 10th October of every year as the as the World Space Week.
ii.The first-ever WSW was observed from 4th to 10th October 2000.
iii.The celebration of WSW guided by the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) and the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)
Why October 4 to 10?
October 4 commemorates the launch of the first human-made Earth satellite, Sputnik 1, thus opening the way for space exploration in 1957.
October 10 commemorates the signing of “Magna Carta of Space”, also known as 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 in 1967
Significance:
WSW 2024 serves as a global hub for collaboration, bringing together experts, students, and enthusiasts from various fields to explore and develop strategies using space technology to promote environmental sustainability and strengthen resilience against climate change.
Poster:
WSWA announced the WSW 2024 poster which highlights “the essential connection between space exploration and climatic change”.
About the United Nations Office of Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA):
Director – Aarti Holla-Maini
Headquarters – Vienna, Austria
Established – 1958
