The United Nations recalls its resolution of 7 April 2011 declaring 12 April as International Day of Spaceflight

The beginning of a cosmic era for humanity

The General Assembly, in its resolution A/RES/65/271 of 7 April 2011, proclaimed 12 April as International Spaceflight Day „to celebrate internationally each year the beginning of the space age for humanity, reaffirming the important contribution of space science and technology to achieving the goals of sustainable development and enhancing the well-being of States and peoples, as well as to ensuring the realization of their efforts to preserve outer space for peaceful purposes.“ On 12 April 1961, the first manned space flight was made by Soviet citizen Yuri Gagarin. This historic event opened the way for space exploration for the benefit of all mankind. The General Assembly expressed its deep conviction of the common interest of mankind in promoting and expanding the exploration and use of outer space as the domain of all mankind for peaceful purposes and in continuing efforts to extend the benefits of space to all nations.

Voyager's golden record: a reminder that we are all connected

Voyager's golden record shot into space in 1977 with humanity's message to the universe - and decades later, it reminds us that we are all connected. The United Nations displays a replica of the Golden Plate at its headquarters and shares a deep connection to the process of its creation. A NASA committee asked the UN to provide materials for inclusion in the playlist, and the first words on the plaque itself are those of the then UN Secretary-General, who expresses his hope for peace and friendship with whoever discovers and plays it. Bill Nye „The Scientist“ Nye, CEO of the Planetary Society, takes the audience through how to decipher the Golden Record, what its relevance is today, and how respect for the universe can inspire action for our planet. This is in line with the United Nations„ ongoing work to promote international cooperation in the peaceful use and exploration of space. Simonetta Di Pippo, Director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, explains the importance of the Golden Plate in our world today. “The Voyager project reminds us who we are, where we come from and that we should treat each other with care."

un.org/gnews.cz