World Space Week
World space week is an international celebration of science and technology and their contribution to the progression of mankind. But what really is World Space Week and how can you celebrate it in your classroom?
Why 4th-10th October?
The United Nations General Assembly declared in 1999 that World Space Week will be held each year from October 4th -10th; this was because these dates commemorate two events:
October 4, 1957: Launch of the first human-made Earth satellite, Sputnik 1, thus opening the way for space exploration.
October 10, 1967: The signing of the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activates of States in the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies.
Who and how is World Space Week celebrated?
World space week consists of educational and outreach events held by a whole host of organisations such as science centres, museums, schools and space agencies. These events are designed to further the understanding of Space and to encourage young people to have an interest in science and technology.
How can you celebrate World Space week?
The scale of how you celebrate World Space Week is completely up to you, it could be anything from a whole school event such as a science fair or display of experiments to a small group project in the classroom. Ideas for activities could be:
Build a space craft: There are so many ways you could build a space craft, from using recycled materials to designing the spacecraft of the future. NASA has even provided a few ideas for you themselves: https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/build-a-spacecraft/en/
Space theme science fiction: The world has always been obsessed with Space, and this has led to many space themed movies, TV shows, books, comics and more! Why not explore some of these stories? You could think about how possible they are, or even create your own science fiction stories!
Space quiz: Everyone loves a good quiz! Create (or find) a space themed quiz which would be perfect for your class!
The real people behind the Space Race: The idea of space itself is fascinating, but let’s not forget the real people that have worked tirelessly over the decades to make space exploration happen. And I’m not just talking about the astronauts either; I’m talking about the scientists that put them on the moon! And if you really want to dig deep, you could look at the woman who worked on the space race which have often been forgotten.
Take a trip to a museum! : This one does depend on what is available to you in your local area, but there might be some fantastic exhibits about space and science at a museum near you.
How will your class celebrate World Space Week?
Don't forget we have an excellent space themed workshop: Planet Rock. The perfect accompaniment to any space themed topic!
