May 3 would be designated as National Space Day under a bipartisan resolution unveiled this week by U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS).
“National Space Day recognizes the individuals and communities within the aerospace industry who have made contributions to space exploration and helped grow the United States’ leadership in space,” said Sen. Moran, who joined U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) — vice chair and chair of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science, respectively — in introducing the resolution.
If enacted, the Senate resolution would support May 3 as National Space Day in recognition of the significant positive impact the aerospace community has and will continue to have on the United States of America, according to the text.
“Space innovation and exploration has grown exponentially in recent years as a result of the hard work and determination of aerospace leaders, researchers and developers,” said Sen. Moran. “I appreciate the leadership of the Space Foundation and the Aerospace Corporation for working together with Congress to inspire the next generation of astronauts, scientists and engineers, and recognize the storied history of aerospace excellence and leadership in the United States.”
Sen. Shaheen said she’s proud to join Sen. Moran on introducing this bipartisan resolution.
“When Americans first set foot on the moon, it captured the imagination of a generation. In the decades since, NASA and the aerospace industry have continued to push boundaries and inspire new generations to look up and dream big,” she added. “As I’ve visited STEM programs in schools, aftercare programs and camps across New Hampshire, I’m confident in the future and the work we are doing to expand STEM opportunities to kids of all backgrounds.”
The Senate version is the companion resolution to House Resolution 1129, which U.S. Reps. Ken Calvert (R-CA) and Ted Lieu (D-CA) proposed on April 10.