Whereas this year marks the 18th annual international World Space Week, designated by the United Nations to celebrate the contributions of space science and technology, and their contribution to the betterment of mankind; Whereas this year marks the 20th annual international Earth Science Week, designated by the American Geosciences Institute to help the public gain a better understanding and appreciation for the Earth sciences and to encourage stewardship of the Earth; Whereas the theme for World Space Week 2017, Exploring New Worlds in Space , focuses on astrobiology missions, feats of engineering, and efforts of NewSpace actors and other entities with a vision for exploration and utilization of extraterrestrial resources as inspirations to the world; Whereas the theme for Earth Science Week 2017, Earth and Human Activity , promotes public understanding and stewardship of the planet, especially in terms of the ways people affect and are affected by Earth’s systems; Whereas the study of Earth sciences leads to an improved understanding of the Earth’s natural systems and the interplay between human society and these systems; Whereas the Earth sciences provide the basis for mitigating natural hazards such as droughts, earthquakes, fires, floods, coastal erosion, hurricanes, and landslides; Whereas the Earth and space sciences contribute to our understanding of Earth as a planet in our solar system and the universe; Whereas Earth and space science research and technology leads to the development of innovative new technologies and industries that fuel the American economy and improve our quality of life; Whereas Earth and space science researchers and educators drive creativity and passion for the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields among students of all ages through diverse and innovative education and public outreach efforts