Annual Report on “The Peaceful Uses of Outer Space”
Theme: “Women in Space.”
Introduction
World Space Week 2021 marked the twenty-second annual celebration since the UN General Assembly declared WSW in 1999.
Held from October 4–10, the theme was “Women in Space.”
This year’s events emphasized the contributions of women to space science, exploration, and industry, while highlighting the importance of gender equality and empowerment in the global space community.
The week was coordinated globally by the World Space Week Association (WSWA) in cooperation with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) World Space Week
Global Participation
- More than 90 nations reported official activities.
- Thousands of events were conducted worldwide, many in hybrid or virtual formats due to the pandemic.
- The UN Secretary-General emphasized the need to amplify women’s voices in space and ensure equal opportunities in STEM fields World Space Week.
Highlights of 2021
- Theme: “Women in Space.”
- Activities: Public lectures, exhibitions, student competitions, cultural programs, and science fairs.
- Focus: Celebrating women astronauts, engineers, scientists, and leaders who have shaped space exploration.
- Special Spotlight: ESA partnered with Mattel to launch Barbie Goes Zero Gravity, inspiring young girls to pursue space careers World Space Week.
Regional Activities
- Africa:
- Nigeria organized debates on women’s role in space development.
- South Africa hosted lectures on female scientists in astronomy and satellite technology.
- Asia-Pacific:
- India’s ISRO held open houses and educational programs highlighting women in space missions.
- Japan celebrated “Space Day” with exhibitions and outreach events.
- China promoted student contests and public exhibitions on women’s contributions to space.
- Europe:
- Poland ran art and science competitions themed on women in space.
- France hosted cultural events linking cinema and female space pioneers.
- UK organized lectures and outreach programs in schools.
- North America & Caribbean:
- USA hosted NASA-led webcasts featuring women astronauts.
- Canada promoted awareness programs on gender equality in STEM.
- Cuba and Trinidad & Tobago held astronomy exhibitions and art contests.
- Latin America:
- Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico organized exhibitions, contests, and cultural events celebrating women in space.
Recommendations
The 2021 report emphasized:
- Promoting gender equality in space science and industry.
- Supporting national coordinators to strengthen local participation.
- Encouraging youth engagement through competitions, facility visits, and educational materials.
- Expanding global cooperation by contributing to UN and WSWA coordination efforts World Space Week.
Impact
World Space Week 2021 reinforced the idea that women are essential to the future of space exploration.
By involving more than 90 nations, the celebration strengthened educational outreach, cultural exchange, and international unity, while inspiring millions of young women to see space as a pathway to achievement.
Closing Note
WSW 2021 built on the momentum of previous years, showing that space is not only about exploration but also about inclusion and empowerment.
The celebration widened public knowledge, inspired youth, and encouraged exploration of the less known, laying the foundation for future themes and growth.