'Astronomer's Paradise' Chile Lines Up Space Week Programmes at Expo 2020 Dubai

To highlight country’s space story and global stature in advancing astronomy during October 17-23, 2021 

Dubai, October 18, 2021: Chile which has an interactive pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai starting with a symbolic Antarctic base said it has lined up a host of programmes for the Space Week from October 17-23, 2021, to highlight the country’s stellar role in advancing astronomy and space exploration.
In a statement, the Latin American country said the lineup of space-related activities were themed under 'Chile – Our Space Story’ –   and the topics which will be highlighted include the country’s innovations in the space exploration space and its contribution to the discovery of the infinite universe.

“We are excited about the Space Week which gives us an opportunity to reinforce our stature as a leading stakeholder in global space studies. It is also significant that this is taking place in the UAE which is the first Arab country to successfully accomplish an unmanned, The Hope Mars Mission, and have robust plans to continue with space explorations,” said Felipe Repetto, Director General at Chile Pavilion Expo 2020.

The Space Week at the Expo is being organized in association with the UAE Space Agency and Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC). Chile is known globally as an 'Astronomer’s Paradise’ with its southern skies among the clearest on earth and dry air offering unhindered views for sky gazers. Chile gets some 200 cloudless nights every year.

Chile also has houses some of the most powerful telescopes in the world including VLTs (Very Large Telescope) and even ELTs (Extremely Large Telescope), and estimates are that by 2025 the country will be a base where half of the world’s image capturing will take place.
“Our participation at the Space Week also coincides well with our stated overarching themes of sustainability and innovation of our pavilion.  Indeed, it is prudent and futuristic for the organisors to trigger discussions on sustainability in space with topics on cleaning space waste as more and more countries across the world join the space race,” she added.

The Space Week discussions will also include the UAE’s space vision, rising role of women in space explorations and other relevant topics that will reinforce the need for safe and productive space studies to support the growing needs of the humanity. Among the major topics of the Chile Space Week include, ' Exploring the Universe from Chile,’ 'Chile’s Institutional Setting,’ 'Chile’s Exploration Challenges,’ 'National Satellite System’ etc.