Space Stations: Communications and Education and Their Importance in Human Spaceflight
- Paper number
IAC-06-E1.5.10
- Author
Mr. Gary H. Kitmacher, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), United States
- Year
2006
- Abstract
This paper and eventual presentation reviews the significance of strategic communications of human spaceflight programs in a historical context and compares this overarching theme and its successes with activities conducted in support of the International Space Station. It also identifies lessons to be applied to future Exploration programs. The paper discusses the history of promotion and public outreach efforts beginning with a series of Wernher von Braun articles that were published in Colliers magazine and then the subsequent Disney television affiliation. It continues with educational and communications efforts NASA pursued in support of Apollo, Skylab and Space Shuttle, then it focuses on the series of campaigns and activities associated with the International Space Station. A brief review of Soviet and Russian efforts related to the Salyut and Mir orbital stations is also provided. Results of a current NASA education program grant for NASA Means Business, which develops public service announcements in conjunction with several U.S. universities, is reviewed and presented. The rationale for various efforts is also reviewed and recommendations are shared to highlight the value and significance of education and outreach efforts in broadening the general public's perception of the human spaceflight program. Television, motion picture, and still imagery are used in the conference presentation to highlight the efforts to date.
- Abstract document