For the first time ever the Italian Space Day (Giornata Nazionale dello Spazio) is going to be organized in Cambodia. The Italian Space day happens every year on the 16th December and this year, ItaCham is organizing a celebrative event on the 14, 15, and 16th December at CamEd Business School.
During the three days a specific area in the entry hall of CamEd Business School will be dedicated to showcasing on a screen the history and the achievements in the space sector of Italy, together with some paintings that creatively link space and imagination. The theme will be around space and apsaras.
Apsaras are in fact celestial nymphs depicted in the intricate bas-reliefs of Angkor Wat and other ancient Khmer temples. Their divine and ethereal nature, as well as their connection to cosmic realms, lends itself to a fascinating metaphorical link to the cosmos. Apsaras are often described as celestial beings who reside in the heavens, dancing gracefully in the court of the gods. Their origins tie them to a divine, otherworldly plane, much like celestial phenomena such as stars, planets, and nebulae, which inspire wonder and are seen as manifestations of the universe’s beauty.
The graceful dance of Apsaras is a powerful symbol of harmony and balance. This mirrors the “cosmic dance” of celestial bodies in space, such as the rotation of planets, the orbits of moons, and the swirling movements of galaxies. Just as Apsaras symbolize the beauty and rhythm of life, space exploration reveals the stunning, dynamic choreography of the cosmos.
In Khmer mythology, Apsaras are not just entertainers but also intermediaries between the divine and the mortal realms. Similarly, space exploration allows humanity to seek understanding of the cosmos, bridging the gap between Earth and the mysteries of the universe.
Italy holds a unique place in the history of space exploration, being among the earliest nations to venture beyond our planet’s atmosphere. On December 16 every year, Italians celebrate National Space Day (Giornata Nazionale dello Spazio), honoring the country’s rich contributions to space science and technology.
This commemorative day, established in 2021, is not just a tribute to Italy’s past achievements but also a call to inspire future generations to reach for the stars.
Italy’s journey into space began in 1964 when it became the third nation, after the Soviet Union and the United States, to launch a satellite into orbit. The San Marco 1, developed by the Italian Space Commission, was launched from Wallops Island, Virginia, in collaboration with NASA. This historic achievement marked Italy as the first European country to independently enter the space race.
In 1988, Italy established the Italian Space Agency (ASI) to centralize and promote its space initiatives.
ASI has since played a crucial role in European and global space programs, contributing to projects like the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Mars Express mission and the International Space Station (ISS).
December 16 was chosen for National Space Day in honor of the San Marco 1 satellite’s pioneering launch. The day is dedicated to celebrating Italy’s achievements and raising awareness of the importance of space exploration for scientific, technological, and economic progress. Events across the country feature discussions, exhibitions, and educational programs aimed at engaging the public and encouraging young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
This celebration also emphasizes international collaboration, highlighting Italy’s partnerships with agencies like ESA, NASA, and private space enterprises. It serves as a reminder of how space endeavors can foster global unity while addressing critical challenges, from climate change to technological innovation.
Italy’s space ambitions continue to soar. With ongoing investments in space technology and research, Italy aims to expand its contributions to lunar and Martian exploration. Italian companies and researchers are involved in projects such as the Artemis program, which seeks to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon. Additionally, Italy is pioneering advancements in microgravity research and satellite technology, ensuring its continued relevance in the global space community.
Italy’s National Space Day is more than just a celebration; it is a reflection of the nation’s dedication to exploring the cosmos and contributing to humanity’s shared knowledge. From its historic satellite launches to its role in cutting-edge international missions, Italy has firmly established itself as a leader in space exploration. As the country looks toward the stars, it also inspires others to dream big and pursue the limitless possibilities of space.
And this is the reason why ItaCham decided to organize the first ever Space Day in Cambodia, to inspire Cambodians through Space and open the doors for collaboration, and investments that can mutually benefit Italy and Cambodia, through space.
Buona Giornata Nazionale dello Spazio 2024.
- Days: 14-15-16 December
- Location: CamEd Business School
- Main Event: Hybrid mode conference, 15th Dec., 2-4 PM at CamEd Business School
- Free Entrance
