Mortezanikko, secretary of Iran’s World Space Week, said at the opening ceremony that the rally was established by a 1999 UN General Assembly resolution and is now the largest international event exclusively for space. He explained that the main goal is to educate the public about the benefits of space exploration, promote sustainable development, build public support for space programs, and encourage the next generation to pursue space science. This week also highlights the expansion of international cooperation on the ground.
This year’s theme, Space and Sustainability, focuses on human efforts to make spaces a livable environment. Nikkho said the theme highlights the innovative technology, key challenges and the role of international partnerships in achieving their goals.
Last year, more than 1,567 events were held in 90 countries. Iran’s Islamic Republic ranks among the top 10 countries with 284 registered events and ranks third in several categories. Nikko said several states, including Isfahan, Yazd and Faz.
Razavi Khorasan and East Azerbaijan took the lead role. East Azerbaijan has already launched its programme this year, including outreach sessions for children.
He emphasized that Iran’s space agencies, Space Research Centre Space and Aerospace Research Institute are the centres of promoting space science. In addition, universities, schools, scientific associations, private organizations and knowledge-based companies are actively involved.
This year’s special programs include starry nights, book distribution, simple astronomy and space lessons for children, webinars and distribution of educational materials from underprivileged regions.
He highlighted the role of media in raising public awareness of space science, saying that intensive training courses will soon be launched for journalists to introduce important concepts and terminology.
Nikkho concluded that given climate change, natural resources reduction and natural disasters, space technology can play a critical role in resource management, crisis-facing and improving quality of life.
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