The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), in collaboration with the Embassy of Italy in the Philippines and the University of the Philippines National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education Development (UP NISMED), formally launched the ‘Cosmic Journeys: Celebrating Philippines and Italy in Space’ exhibit on 23 April 2025 at UP NISMED Auditorium in Diliman, Quezon City.
This collaboration showcased the contributions of the Philippines and Italy to space exploration, encouraging public interest and appreciation for space science and astronomy.
From 24 April to 02 May 2025, visitors explored the following exhibits free of charge:
- #YamangKalawakan: The Philippine Space Ecosystem (UP NISMED Ground Floor Lobby) – an exhibit that showcased the Philippines’ growing space capabilities, including Filipino-made satellites, research initiatives, contributions in orbit, and how space science and technology applications (SSTA) help solve real-world problems such as natural disasters and climate change.
- From Moon to Mars: Italy in Space Exploration (UP NISMED Auditorium) – an exploration of Italy’s history of space milestones and active role in space exploration, from lunar missions to upcoming explorations of Mars.
Cosmic Journeys culminated in an event celebrating the vibrant Filipino astronomy community, via the the Cosmic Journeys Stargazers’ Mixer which gathered over a dozen astronomy organizations on the evening of 02 May 2025 at the UP NISMED Observatory. This event was held in partnership with the UP Astronomical Society (UP AstroSoc) and aimed to foster connection and collaboration within the Filipino astronomy community.
A total of 14 organizations have attended the Stargazers’ Mixer that was organized by PhilSA, in partnership with the UP AstroSoc and UP NISMED Observatory.
During the launch, PhilSA Director General Joel Joseph Marciano Jr. underscored the importance of ‘Cosmic Journeys’ in the context of the country’s growing role in the global space community.
“The exhibits capture Italy’s proud space heritage and continuing space advancements and also tell the story of the Philippines’ space aspirations and growing ecosystem. Through this collaboration, we convey the hope and shared vision of both nations in charting new frontiers in space together,” said PhilSA Director General Marciano.
He also further emphasized that “space is for everyone,” encouraging everyone, especially the young people and young at heart, to take part in shaping the future of space science. “Ask questions, seek answers, explore boldly, seize this journey. As we say in the Philippine Space Agency as our mantra— be a sponge, one that seeks and absorbs know-how, but don’t forget to squeeze and apply that know-how to make things around you better,” PhilSA Director General Marciano added.
PhilSA Director General Marciano, Jr. delivers the opening message during the event.
His Excellency Davide Giglio, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Embassy of the Republic of Italy, echoed the sentiment of unity and scientific ambition, and reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to supporting the Philippines in its space journey, noting that collaboration is key to unlocking new frontiers. “Together, the Italians and the Filipinos can do great things for the benefit of their own communities, but also in general, for the benefit of mankind,” he said.
During his message, Italian Ambassador Giglio emphasizes that space is a sector where, together, Italians and Filipinos can do great things.
Atty. Edgardo Carlo Vistan II, UP Diliman Chancellor, welcomes everyone to the inaugural program celebrating the milestones of Philippines and Italy in space at UP NISMED Auditorium during his welcome remarks.
Professor Teodoro Valente, President of the Agenzia Spaziale Italiana or the Italian Space Agency, virtually shares his message, celebrating Italy’s 60-year legacy in space and its continued efforts to support international partnerships.
(L-R) UP Diliman Chancellor Atty Vistan II, PhilSA Director General Marciano, Jr., and Italian Ambassador Giglio explore the ‘From Moon to Mars: Italy in Space Exploration’ exhibit.
Mr. Eligio Obille, Jr., UP NISMED Science Education Specialist, leads the guided tour for the ‘From Moon to Mars: Italy in Space Exploration’ exhibit after the opening ceremony.
Visitors view the ‘#YamangKalawakan: The Philippine Space Ecosystem’ exhibit.
UP NISMED also hosted a telescope viewing activity on the evening of the launch, where participants were guided by astronomy experts and educators as they observed the night sky through telescopes, offering memorable, close encounters with Mars and Jupiter.
A participant gets the chance to view different celestial bodies during the telescope viewing activity. Photo courtesy of UP NISMED Observatory.
The Cosmic Journeys showcase underscored the commitment and aspirations of the Philippines and Italy in promoting awareness and appreciation of space science, fostering innovation and cross-cultural connections, and inspiring future generations of space enthusiasts and innovators.