What You Need to Know
The Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre in Mauritius hosted a ceremony to commemorate the International Day of Human Space Flight, honoring Yuri Gagarin’s historic mission. Attendees included government officials and the Russian Ambassador, who emphasized the importance of science and technology in addressing global challenges and enhancing cooperation between Mauritius and Russia.
Africa-Press – Mauritius. The International Day of Human Space Flight was observed today during a commemorative ceremony held at the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre (RGSC) in Bell Village. The event was organised in partnership with the Embassy of the Russian Federation to the Republic of Mauritius.
Among those present were the Minister of Tertiary Education, Science and Research, Dr Kaviraj Sharma Sukon; the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Republic of Mauritius, Mrs Irada Zeynalova; the Director of the RGSC, Dr Aman Maulloo, and members of the scientific community.
The Day observed annually on 12 April, commemorates the historic 1961 mission during which Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin became the first human to travel into space, paving the way for future exploration for the benefit of humanity.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Sukon underscored the transformative role of science and technology as key drivers of economic development and essential tools for addressing contemporary global challenges. He further highlighted the growing importance of space-based data and technologies in sectors such as agriculture and healthcare, particularly in enhancing monitoring systems and improving decision-making processes.
The Minister also emphasised the longstanding and cordial relations between the Republic of Mauritius and the Russian Federation in the fields of science, technology and innovation.
For her part, Ambassador Zeynalova reaffirmed the Russian Federation’s commitment to supporting Mauritius in deepening cooperation in science and space-related fields.
Activities
As part of events marking the 65th anniversary of Yuri Gagarin’s landmark flight, a wreath-laying ceremony was held at the bust of the cosmonaut within the premises of the RGSC. The ceremony paid tribute to his pioneering contribution and enduring legacy in the advancement of space science.
A keynote lecture entitled “From Gagarin to the International Space Station: 65 Years of Human Spaceflight” also featured on the programme. It was delivered by Russian cosmonaut, Mr Aleksandr Gorbunov, who has contributed to human space exploration through his mission aboard the International Space Station.
Mr Gorbunov undertook his first spaceflight as part of the Crew-9 mission, which launched on 28 September 2024 aboard a Crew Dragon spacecraft. Over the course of his 171-day mission, he carried out a range of scientific experiments and assisted with the maintenance of the station’s systems.
Additional activities comprised a film screening and an exhibition themed “Fly Me into Space”, aimed at enhancing public awareness and deepen understanding of space exploration and its practical applications. The exhibition showcased key milestones in space science and highlighted the technological advancements that have driven the evolution of modern space missions.
The International Day of Human Space Flight is celebrated annually on April 12, marking Yuri Gagarin’s groundbreaking journey in 1961 as the first human in space. This event not only symbolizes a significant achievement in space exploration but also highlights the ongoing collaboration between nations in advancing scientific knowledge and technology. The Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre’s commemoration reflects Mauritius’s commitment to fostering international partnerships in science and technology, particularly with the Russian Federation, which has a rich history in space exploration.
