June 18 – The Italian Space Agency opens a window on Italy’s space program for the 2013 edition of the International Paris Air Show – Le Bourget. On occasion of the 50 years of the biennial appointment, a landmark in Europe and the world for aeronautics and space, the Italian Space Agency brings together the whole system in a single unit: the manufacturing industry, services and establishment. ISA’s stand thus becomes a true identification path for skills and activities related to national trade associations and federations (represented by AIAD, AIPAS and ASAS), achievements and services (Altec, Avio, CGS SpA, Selex Galileo Telespazio and Thales Alenia Space), and research (conducted by CIRA). The stand will also be the gatherings and meetings center for institutional representatives. Italy’s prominent space activities will be divided in different thematic areas and placed along a documentation and exhibition path illustrating successes and individuals involved. The recent launch of Italian astronaut Luca Parmitano reaffirmed Italy’s essential role on the International Space Station. The station is the most important and ambitious program of global cooperation in the field of science and technology, Italy plays a prominent role in the industrial, scientific, use and astronauts departments. Parmitano is the sixth Italian astronaut and the fourth on the ISS where he will remain for the firs ISA long-duration mission. Luca Parmitano is currently on the ISS, where more than half the volume of habitable space is branded ‘Made in Italy’.
