All systems 'go' for National Space Day

May 3, 2000
Web posted at: 5:17 PM EDT (2117 GMT)

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Space enthusiasts young and old will celebrate National Space Day across the United States on Thursday. Former astronaut and U.S. senator John Glenn will take part in the main ceremony in Washington, which includes a live Webcast hosted by CNN Correspondent Miles O'Brien.

Other NASA dignitaries along with an estimated million or more schoolchildren plan to participate in the fourth annual event, an educational initiative that pays tribute to the achievements and benefits of space exploration.

Glenn is the national spokesman of Space Day 2000. Joining him at the National Air and Space Museum will be Sally Ride, the first American woman in space; Dr. Bernard Harris Jr., the first African-American to walk in space; and Bill Shepard, who will serve as the first commander aboard the International Space Station.

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Space Day Web site Calendar of Events (External sites)

The next generation of space travelers can talk to the legendary astronauts during a live three-hour Webcast that begins at noon EDT and will be streamed from the CNN.com/Space main page.

The interactive event will give youngsters the opportunity to quiz the entrepreneurs, filmmakers and scientists on space-related topics.

"The most important thing we can do is inspire young minds and to advance the kind of science, math and technology education that will help youngsters take us to the next phase of space travel," Glenn, the first U.S. astronaut in orbit, said in a statement.

Living and Working in Space is the theme of this year's event. For the past several months, children in the classroom have brainstormed to solve the challenges of communication, water purification and physical fitness on the International Space Station. They will present their innovative solutions during Space Day.

Schools, museums and libraries across North America plan to televise the Space Day discussion via satellite, and host other activities like rocket launch parties, space exhibits and astronaut visits. Space Day's Web site has a complete calendar of events.

Lockheed Martin Corp. spearheads the annual event, which now has more than 70 educational, government and businesses sponsors. Primary partners include the Challenger Center for Space Science Education, the National Science Foundation and NASA.

Astronomy Day kicks off this weekend
April 7, 2000
Space Day 1999: Glenn announces school children will help drive next Mars rover
May 6, 1999
Glenn: Space adventure 'strengthens my faith'
November 1, 1998

Space Day 2000
NASA home page
National Science Foundation
Lockheed Martin

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