World Space Week 2026 is under way and runs from October 4 to 10. This year's theme is "Rocket Revolution." According to The Planetary Society, it celebrates how space launch has grown from a handful of government programs into a diverse ecosystem of commercial providers, reusable rockets and new space actors around the world.

What Is World Space Week?

The United Nations General Assembly declared World Space Week in 1999, and it is held every year from October 4 to 10. It is coordinated by the UN with support from the World Space Week Association, a non-profit supported by national coordinators in more than 50 nations. The association describes it as the largest annual space event on Earth. Nearly 50,000 events took place in more than 100 countries during the 2025 celebration.

Why October 4 to 10?

  • October 4, 1957: the Soviet Union launched Sputnik, marking the beginning of the Space Age.
  • October 10, 1967: the UN Outer Space Treaty entered into force.

What "Rocket Revolution" Means

The theme looks at how rockets have changed access to space and how people everywhere can take part through simple rocket activities. It spotlights the rapid shift in launch systems and what it means for science, education, industry and society. Organizers are encouraged to interpret it in ways that fit their communities. The association invites everyone to launch or release rockets during the week, though all space-related events are welcome.

Easy Ways to Take Part

Any space-related activity during the week counts, whatever its size, format or location. Ideas include:

  • A STEM lesson in school.
  • A model or DIY rocket launch.
  • A stargazing night.
  • A space movie marathon.
  • A community or museum event.

Organizers can add their events to the official map at worldspaceweek.org.

Events Around the World

National coordinators are running their own programs. In Pakistan, SUPARCO is leading activities that include a university contest on rocket system design and a satellite design hackathon. In the UK, the British Interplanetary Society is organizing themed competitions.

Key Takeaways

  • World Space Week 2026 runs October 4-10 with the theme "Rocket Revolution."
  • The dates honor Sputnik's launch and the Outer Space Treaty.
  • Anyone can take part, from a classroom rocket launch to a stargazing night.