Annual Report on “The Peaceful Uses of Outer Space”
Theme: “The Moon: Gateway to the Stars.”
Introduction
World Space Week 2019 marked the twentieth annual celebration since the UN General Assembly declared WSW in 1999.
Held from October 4–10, the theme was “The Moon: Gateway to the Stars.”
This year’s events commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing in 1969, celebrating humanity’s first steps on another world and looking ahead to future lunar missions.
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 80 nations reported official activities.
- Events involved schools, universities, museums, space agencies, and NGOs.
- The UN Secretary-General emphasized the Moon as a symbol of human achievement and a stepping stone to deeper space exploration.
Highlights of 2019
- Theme: “The Moon: Gateway to the Stars.”
- Activities: Public lectures, exhibitions, student competitions, cultural programs, and science fairs.
- Focus: Celebrating the Apollo legacy, showcasing current lunar missions, and inspiring future exploration of Mars and beyond.
Regional Activities
- Africa:
- Nigeria organized debates on lunar 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 Chandrayaan missions.
- Japan celebrated “Space Day” with exhibitions and outreach events.
- China promoted student contests and public exhibitions on lunar science.
- Europe:
- Poland ran art and science competitions themed on the Moon.
- 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 the Apollo legacy.
- Canada promoted awareness programs on satellites and lunar research.
- Cuba and Trinidad & Tobago held astronomy exhibitions and art contests.
- Latin America:
- Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico organized exhibitions, contests, and cultural events.
Recommendations
The 2019 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 2019 was historic, celebrating the 50th anniversary of humanity’s first steps on the Moon.
By involving more than 80 nations, the celebration strengthened educational outreach, cultural exchange, and international unity, while inspiring millions to see the Moon as a gateway to the stars.
Closing Note
WSW 2019 built on the momentum of previous years, showing that space is not only about exploration but also about legacy and inspiration.
The celebration widened public knowledge, inspired youth, and encouraged exploration of the less known, laying the foundation for future themes and growth.