Dear .......................,

We ask for your help in shaping the future agenda for space as we stand at a crucial stage entering the new millennium. The period between 1957 and 1991 saw the dawn of the space age with flights to the planets, footprints on the moon, and global communications; however, this history of space was anchored in the global cold war with its massive budgets for military space exploitation. The last ten years, however, have brought about a new era of space exploration, international co-operation and focus on our own planet.

For most of this time, the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA) has brought together the world's foremost experts in the field of astronautics on a regular basis to recognize the accomplishments of their peers, to explore and discuss cutting-edge issues in space research and technology, and to provide direction and guidance in the non-military uses of space and the ongoing exploration of the solar system.

We should like to solicit your assistance in helping the Academy formulate the future through recognition of the positive impacts of space activities upon society. With the assistance of a dedicated study team, the Academy is creating a special book entitled Impact of Space Activities upon Society which will be jointly published with the European Space Agency (ESA). The book aims to give the personal insights from world leaders, authorities and personalities in response to the following statement:

"I believe that space activities are impacting society through......"

Our intention is to illustrate to the general public that space activities have a positive impact on everyday life and society. We would be honored if you would give us your personal statement which we would then incorporate unchanged in the book together with those of other global figures as an assessment of and reflection on the impact of some 45 years of space flight upon society.

Information to assist you is attached along with brief descriptions of the IAA and ESA. We appreciate your contribution to this book as we recognize that one of the greatest explorations by mankind occurred during the trips to the moon, while the biggest steps for each of us might be just getting to tomorrow. This dichotomy is the essence of why the book is important to publish in the era of the 40th Anniversary of human space flight.

Yours Sincerely,

Peter A. Swan, Ph.D.
Study Lead, Impact of Space Activities upon Society
International Academy of Astronautics