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National Space Day

On National Space Day, explore the wonders of our universe - from galaxies far away to planets in our solar system!

Friday

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEFirst Friday in May

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYSchool

SUBCATEGORYSTEM

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate National Space Day on the first Friday of May! This special day was created in 1997 to celebrate the past, present and future of space exploration. It's a great opportunity for people around the world to come together and appreciate all that space has to offer. From astronomical observations to human achievements, this is a day of learning and appreciation that highlights our progress in discovering the mysteries of the universe. So get out your telescopes and prepare yourself for an exciting journey as you explore what lies beyond our planet!

TIMELINE

National Space Day Timeline

National Space Day Origin

National Space Day was created by Lockheed Martin Corporation as a one-day event to promote the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields among students and to celebrate the advancements in space exploration.

Space Day Goes International

The John Glenn Space Shuttle mission STS-95 in 1998 results in National Space Day being celebrated globally, becoming International Space Day.

Mars Exploration Rover Mission

NASA launches the Mars Exploration Rover Mission, with rovers Spirit and Opportunity, marking a significant advancement in space exploration.

Curiosity Rover Lands on Mars

NASA's rover Curiosity lands on Mars in August, marking a significant milestone in Mars exploration and coinciding with that year's International Space Day celebrations.

Launch of Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover

NASA's Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover begins its journey to Mars, with plans to search for signs of ancient life and collect samples for return to Earth.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Space Day

Watch a space movie

Take the day off, pop some popcorn, and watch a movie set in space. It could be a classic like Star Wars or Apollo 13, or something more recent like Gravity or The Martian. Enjoy the adventure!

VISIT

Visit a planetarium

Many cities have planetariums that you can visit. There, you can learn about the stars, planets, and other celestial bodies in our universe. You'll be amazed at what you find out.

HOST

Host a star gazing party

Set up a telescope in your backyard and invite friends over to take turns looking at the stars. Don't forget the snacks and hot chocolate!

HAVE

Have an astronaut costume party

Have each guest dress up as an astronaut or other space traveler. Encourage them to bring props like space helmets and ray guns. Play fun space themed games like Space Invaders or Asteroids.

MAKE

Make astronaut ice cream

This treat was actually developed for astronauts in space. All you need is some pudding mix, whipped topping, and freeze dried ice cream. Mix together and let cool in the freezer for a few hours before serving.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Space Day

Space encourages international collaboration

Space exploration can bring countries together like no other endeavor. On National Space Day, people from around the world come together to share their discoveries and contribute towards making further progress in human space travel. This type of global collaboration can help foster peace and understanding between nations by showing that striving towards a common goal has the power to unite us.

Space exploration fosters innovation

Space exploration is a great catalyst for advancements in technology. As we strive to discover and explore new worlds, it encourages us to come up with more efficient and effective ways of doing things. From advances in propulsion systems to improved camera technology, space exploration can have amazing implications for both the present and future.

Space inspires awe and wonder

Looking out into the night sky is one of the most humbling experiences imaginable. The sheer size and scope of the universe can be intimidating, but also exciting as we get to explore all its secrets. Space Day is an opportunity to celebrate this vastness and marvel at the wonders that are out there.

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