In 1999, the United Nations General Assembly designated the week of October 4-10 “World Space Week” to celebrate the shared connections around the world made possible by space travel and exploration. These dates were chosen arbitrarily, but commemorate the launch of the first human-made Earth satellite, Sputnik, on October 4, 1957, and the signing of what is commonly referred to as the Outer Space Treaty on October 10, 1967. Today, over 82 countries participate in over 4000 World Space Week events.
The Embassy joined in too! On October 8, we teamed up with the Space Foundation to showcase artwork of space made by young Canadians and international students participating in the Space Foundation’s International Student Art Contest.
Canada supports student engagement in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), with programs like the Junior Astronauts Initiative. Canada’s Junior Astronauts participate in a designed curriculum through their school or organization, and have the opportunity to attend a space-themed camp during the summer inspiring young Canadians to learn more STEM, fitness and nutrition, and communications and teamwork.
What’s more, the Canadian Space Agency recently joined NASA in their NASA I² Program, allowing Canadian university students to participate in internships while receiving mentorship from experienced scientists. These examples are all demonstrative of Canada’s collaboration with the international community to advance space science and research.
Delighted to celebrate winners of the 9th annual @SpaceFoundation International Student Art Contest and Canada-U.S. #space cooperation at @CanEmbUSA during @WorldSpaceWeek! #SpaceArt20 #WSW2019 pic.twitter.com/4XR7VbLOJP
— Embassy of Canada US (@CanEmbUSA) October 8, 2019