Kelly Leads Resolution Recognizing June 30 as National Asteroid Day
Today, Arizona Senator and retired NASA astronaut Mark Kelly alongside Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced a Senate resolution designating June 30 as Asteroid Day. The resolution highlights the importance of increasing public understanding of asteroids, planetary defense, and space science, while marking the 10th anniversary of the global Asteroid Day initiative. Kelly was one of the first signatories of the 100X declaration that launched Asteroid Day in 2015, alongside other astronauts, Nobel laureates, and scientists.
“As a retired astronaut, I’ve seen up close what science and space exploration can do for our country. Asteroid Day is more than just a reminder about why planetary defense matters, it’s an opportunity to ignite curiosity and inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers,” said Kelly. “I’m excited to introduce a resolution recognizing Asteroid Day in the United States Senate for the very first time.”
“Flagstaff has a deep and rich culture of planetary research and discovery and joins in recognizing June 30 as World Asteroid Day. We celebrate scientific discovery like that of scientists at Northern Arizona University, Lowell Observatory, and the United States Geological Survey who are involved in NASA’s first planetary defense mission, called the Double Asteroid Redirection Test, or DART. We’re honored to have these scientific powerhouses, as well as the United States Naval Observatory Flagstaff Station, located here and recognize that many of our country’s proudest achievements resulted, in part, by research conducted, and discoveries made, right here in Flagstaff, Arizona. We extend sincere thanks to our own Astronaut, Senator Kelly, for his leadership and steadfast support of ongoing scientific discovery,” said Becky Daggett, Mayor of City of Flagstaff.
“We deeply appreciate Senator Kelly’s recognition of Asteroid Day and his steadfast support for scientific discovery and space exploration. Astro-tourism is a cornerstone of Coconino County’s economy, drawing visitors from around the world to experience our celebrated Lowell Observatory—site of Pluto’s discovery—and to marvel at some of the nation’s most pristine dark skies, treasured by locals and tourists alike. I feel privileged to have known Gene and Carolyn Shoemaker personally—visionaries whose pioneering work in planetary geology continues to inspire us all. As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of Asteroid Day, this milestone offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the remarkable progress we’ve made in raising public awareness about asteroids and their profound significance to science and society,” said Patrice Horstman, Coconino County Supervisor.
“It’s truly inspiring to see Senator Mark Kelly, a fellow astronaut, demonstrate such vital leadership by championing a national resolution that honors both the groundbreaking work of the United Nations and the hundreds of dedicated, independently organized Asteroid Day events across the globe,” said Apollo 9 Astronaut Rusty Schweickart, Co-founder B612 Foundation, and co-founder Asteroid Day. “Events like those hosted by Meteor Crater and Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, exemplify the grassroots spirit that makes this movement so powerful. Senator Kelly’s unwavering commitment to science and planetary defense across all levels of government, from local to national and international, is crucial for keeping America at the forefront of science and technology.”
“As we enter a new and exciting era of space exploration, there’s a heightened awareness of the relationship between Earth and asteroids. Meteor Crater, a vivid testament to a past impact, serves as an unparalleled teaching tool, showcasing the real and devastating force when space and Earth converge. We take immense pride in Arizona’s scientific and space leadership, and we applaud Senator Mark Kelly and the U.S. Senate for recognizing Asteroid Day and raising awareness of what is paramount to the survival of all mankind,” said Matt Kent, President and CEO of Meteor Crater and Barringer Space Museum.
“As Arizona’s first astronaut in space (born in Phoenix!) and with a background in engineering and business, I’m thankful for the state’s role in advancing aerospace engineering and science. Advancements in aerospace technology and knowledge enhance our lives on Earth. Lowell Observatory and Meteor Crater are co-hosting Asteroid Day, and this is a fantastic demonstration of Arizona’s unique role in understanding our solar system. Developing the technologies to track and potentially mitigate asteroids is a complex yet achievable grand challenge. From a business standpoint, this emerging field offers incredible opportunities for new industries and partnerships. Asteroid Day is a powerful reminder for all Arizonans – from our students to our entrepreneurs – that our state is not only a cradle of aerospace innovation but a critical player in securing our future through space science and ingenuity,” said Steven Smith, NASA Astronaut from Arizona.
“As an astronaut and a proud planetary science graduate of the Lunar and Planetary Lab at the University of Arizona, it’s truly gratifying to see Lowell Observatory and Meteor Crater co-host Asteroid Day here in the state. My asteroid work began at the UA, and I carried that interest to orbit and back, eventually assisting the Association of Space Explorers’ efforts to help create the UN-approved IAWN and SMPAG. This global effort underlines the truth that our future is in and connected to the cosmos–and we can nudge its workings just enough to protect Earth from a future asteroid catastrophe. With Arizona at the forefront of understanding and expanding our knowledge of asteroids and the solar system, let’s use this day to inspire the next generation here to look up, dream big, and explore paths that guard our planet and shape our future in space,” said Thomas David Jones, NASA Astronaut from Arizona.
“Asteroid Day’s core mission is to inspire. We particularly hope to galvanize teachers, librarians, content creators and other educators to encourage the next generation to delve into the fascinating world of asteroids, understanding both their risks and the incredible opportunities they present,” said Danica Remy, Asteroid Day Co-founder and President of B612 Foundation. “It’s about empowering young minds to dream big about what’s possible with new and emerging technologies that allow us to better understand these celestial bodies.”
Background:
Asteroid Day is a global event led by Kelly intended to educate the public about the role of asteroids in our solar system, their potential for resource utilization, and their significance in understanding the origins of the universe. It also promotes awareness of the science and technology being developed to detect, track, and mitigate potential asteroid threats.
The campaign was officially recognized by the United Nations in 2016 but has never been recognized by the U.S. Congress until now. The 10th anniversary celebration of Asteroid Day will take place at Arizona’s Meteor Crater and Barringer Space Museum, in partnership with Coconino County, the City of Flagstaff, Winslow, Lowell Observatory, the B612 Foundation, and the Asteroid Institute.
Read the full resolution here.
