(Center) PhilSA Ad Interim Director General Dr. Gay Jane P. Perez and UNOOSA Director Aarti Holla-Maini during the official launch of the United Nations edition of Si Tala at ang Kanyang Lakbay Kalawakan! at the 69th United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) in Vienna, Austria, on June 12, 2026. The children’s book, originally developed by the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), is now available in six UN languages to promote global awareness of space law, diplomacy, and the peaceful use of outer space. (Photo courtesy of PhilSA)
The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) has achieved a major milestone in space education as the United Nations edition of the Filipino children’s book Si Tala at ang Kanyang Lakbay Kalawakan! was officially launched during the 69th United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) in Vienna, Austria on June 12, 2026.
Originally published in Filipino in 2023, the book introduces children to space law, diplomacy, and the peaceful, responsible, and sustainable use of outer space through the adventures of Tala, a young Filipino astronaut. The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) has published the book in English alongside translations in French, Arabic, Chinese, Spanish, and Russian, making it accessible to a global audience.
PhilSA Ad Interim Director General Dr. Gay Jane P. Perez said the project was created to help young learners understand the United Nations’ five treaties on outer space and inspire early appreciation for space governance. She welcomed the book’s international release as an important step in expanding global awareness of space policy.
UNOOSA Director Aarti Holla-Maini emphasized that educating young people about science, cooperation, and diplomacy is essential to ensuring the peaceful and sustainable use of outer space.
The international publication follows a release agreement signed earlier this year between PhilSA and UNOOSA, building on their partnership established in 2021 through a Memorandum of Understanding on international space cooperation. Additional translations are already underway, including German, Maltese, and Slovenian editions.
The global launch highlights the Philippines’ growing contribution to international space education and diplomacy while showcasing Filipino-developed educational materials on the world stage.
