Space Inspires Humanity
New York
Humanity is looking up—and beyond. This Saturday marks the start of World Space Week 2025, inviting people worldwide to imagine life beyond Earth. The theme, “Living in Space,” highlights how scientific innovation, international law, and global collaboration are shaping humanity’s future among the stars, while many space technologies already impact life on Earth.
Established by the UN in 1999, World Space Week runs from October 4 to 10, commemorating two key milestones: the 1957 launch of Sputnik 1, the first artificial satellite, and the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, which laid the foundation for international space law. Today, over 90 countries launch satellites, with the global space economy expected to exceed $730 billion by 2030.
“Space is not a distant dream. It’s already a shared reality,” said Aarti Holla-Maini, Director of the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs (OOSA). Space innovations—from solar panels to water purification and satellite GPS—have transformed industries and daily life.
However, space is becoming crowded. By 2024, over 45,000 human-made objects orbit Earth, including satellites and debris, raising risks of collisions. OOSA supports sustainable space practices, such as debris control and “space traffic management,” ensuring safe, fair access for all.
Lunar exploration is expanding, with more than 100 missions planned by 2030. OOSA’s “One Moon for All” initiative promotes peaceful and inclusive exploration. Space is now a development tool beyond wealthy nations, aiding countries like Kenya and Nepal in building satellites and using space data for disaster response, climate monitoring, and environmental protection.
Global cooperation remains essential to keep space accessible, safe, and conflict-free amid growing private and geopolitical interests. Every UN Member State deserves a voice in space governance.