Annual Report on “The Peaceful Uses of Outer Space”
Theme: “Exploring New Worlds in Space.”
Introduction
World Space Week 2017 marked the eighteenth annual celebration since the UN General Assembly declared WSW in 1999.
Held from October 4–10, the theme was “Exploring New Worlds in Space.”
This year’s events emphasized humanity’s quest to explore beyond Earth—missions to Mars, exoplanet discoveries, and the expansion of human presence into deeper space.
The week was coordinated globally by the World Space Week Association (WSWA) in cooperation with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA).
Global Participation
- More than 70 nations reported official activities.
- Events involved schools, universities, museums, space agencies, and NGOs.
- The UN Secretary-General highlighted the importance of exploration as a driver of innovation, cooperation, and inspiration for future generations.
Highlights of 2017
- Theme: “Exploring New Worlds in Space.”
- Activities: Public lectures, exhibitions, student competitions, cultural programs, and science fairs.
- Focus: Showcasing missions to Mars, exoplanet research, and the International Space Station as stepping stones to humanity’s future in space.
Regional Activities
- Africa:
- Nigeria organized debates on planetary exploration and its benefits for Earth.
- South Africa hosted lectures on astronomy and satellite technology.
- Asia-Pacific:
- India’s ISRO held open houses and educational programs on Mars and planetary missions.
- Japan celebrated “Space Day” with exhibitions and outreach events.
- China promoted student contests and public exhibitions on exoplanet discoveries.
- Europe:
- Poland ran art and science competitions themed on new worlds.
- France hosted cultural events linking space and cinema.
- UK organized lectures and outreach programs in schools.
- North America & Caribbean:
- USA hosted NASA-led webcasts and distributed educational kits focused on planetary exploration.
- Canada promoted awareness programs on satellites and exoplanet science.
- Cuba and Trinidad & Tobago held astronomy exhibitions and art contests.
- Latin America:
- Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico organized exhibitions, contests, and cultural events.
Recommendations
The 2017 report emphasized:
- Scheduling events during October 4–10 for visibility.
- Supporting national coordinators to strengthen local participation.
- Encouraging youth engagement through competitions, facility visits, and educational materials.
- Promoting global cooperation by contributing to UN and WSWA coordination efforts.
Impact
World Space Week 2017 reinforced the idea that exploration of new worlds inspires humanity and advances science.
By involving more than 70 nations, the celebration strengthened educational outreach, cultural exchange, and international unity, while highlighting space’s role in expanding human horizons.
Closing Note
WSW 2017 built on the momentum of previous years, showing that space is not only about exploration but also about imagination and discovery.
The celebration widened public knowledge, inspired youth, and encouraged exploration of the less known, laying the foundation for future themes and growth.