In Washington next week, and all over America, thousands of people will be joining astronauts, astronomers, and astrophysicists, among many others, in celebrating World Space Week 2016. This year’s theme, “Remote Sensing: Enabling Our Future”, is sparking wide-ranging activities. From galas to stargazing to virtual classrooms, all who have interest in outer space – professionals, students, and hobbyists ñ are invited to join events or create their own. It’s a week-long chance to participate simultaneously in global excitement and local fun.

Declared by the UN in 1999, World Space Week is the largest public event about space exploration, science and technology – like Earth Day, but for Space. The annual celebration fosters space outreach and education around the world, and connects people from many cultures holding events synchronized over the course of the week. An observing member of the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, for World Space Week building international cooperation is key: “World Space Week is an amazing way to connect with people who care about space exploration and its effects on our lives. It’s inclusive – if you’re into space, there’s a place for you” said Timiebi Aganaba-Jeanty, Executive Director of the World Space Week Association. The national USA page is a great place to start for those looking to get more involved.

Highlights around the US include:

  • Space Heroes Hall of Fame Inaugural Gala, one of many Space Foundation events in Colorado Springs, CO.
  • Commemorating World Space Week, the first annual IMAX Space Week films will be shown at theaters around the country.
  • Aerospace in Hawaii Week, Honolulu, HI
  • An Afternoon With An Astronaut – Story Musgrave: the only astronaut to go to space in all five space shuttles! Tampa, FL

Free Virtual Classrooms for students and educators:

  • Generation Beyond Virtual Field Trip, By Discovery Education. Grades 6-8, Oct 4th
  • NASA’s Tour of the Electromagnetic Spectrum. Grades 5-8, Oct 5th Click to Register

About World Space Week:  World Space Week 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. World Space Week is coordinated by the United Nations with the support of the World Space Week Association (WSWA).