How Human Space Flight Was Changed Forever On This Day

From Yuri Gagarin to the Space Shuttle, April 12 marks a day of groundbreaking achievements in human spaceflight history. The International Day of Human Space Flight is celebrated on April 12 every year to commemorate the historic milestone achieved by Yuri Gagarin, the first human to journey into outer space on April 12, 1961. The day is officially recognized by the United Nations General Assembly to celebrate the beginning of the space era for mankind and to promote the exploration and peaceful use of outer space. The day also recognizes the achievements of other space missions that followed Gagarin's historic flight, including the launch of the Space Shuttle Columbia on April 12, 1981. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of space exploration and its contributions to advancing science and technology. Celebrations and events are held worldwide to mark the occasion, including exhibitions, conferences, and educational activities to inspire the next generation of space explorers.