World Space Week, held annually from October 4 to 10 and designated by the United Nations, is the
largest global event dedicated to promoting awareness of space, science, and technology, and their
vital role in advancing humanity and improving life on Earth.
Each year features a unique theme that highlights a key aspect of space exploration. The theme for
2025 is "Living in Space."
Space exploration missions are conducted to study space and celestial bodies - such as planets, stars, comets, and galaxies - using advanced instruments and technologies. These missions are broadly categorized into manned and unmanned missions, based upon their specific scientific objectives.
Sustaining human life in space requires advanced technologies that allow astronauts to travel, breathe, and move safely in the harsh environments that would otherwise be uninhabitable without artificial support. The key technologies that support life in space include:
Space stations are advanced structures that orbit Earth or other celestial bodies. Designed as state-of-the-art laboratories, they provide conditions that support human life and enable scientific research. They stand as a major milestone in humanity's pursuit of space exploration and form an essential stepping stone toward future habitation beyond Earth.
The International Space Station (ISS).
The Tiangong Space Station.
Spacecraft function as mobile habitats, providing astronauts with the essential
conditions for living and working in space. These vehicles are equipped with
advanced technological systems that ensure safety, life support, and protection from
the harsh environment beyond Earth.
Key technologies integrated into spacecraft
include:
The space suit functions as a mobile personal spacecraft, providing protection and life support during extravehicular activities. It is designed to shield astronauts from radiation and micrometeoroid debris, supply breathable air, maintain a suitable body pressure, and regulate temperature through an integrated thermal control system.