Quito – The Italian Embassy in Quito has once again participated in the third edition of the National Space Day, an initiative by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs aimed at promoting Italy's image as a highly innovative country in space exploration, technological, and industrial innovation. Italy also plays a leading role in sustainability and satellite technologies for the benefit of society.

During the conference at the Escuela Politécnica Nacional, one of Ecuador’s most specialized universities in astrophysical and space research, the focus will be on the strategic importance of space, culture, and innovation in Italy's foreign policy, emphasizing the role of scientific diplomacy. The 2024 edition also marks the 60th anniversary of the launch of the San Marco 1 satellite from the Wallops base in Virginia, which made Italy the third country in the world to launch a satellite into orbit after the Soviet Union and the United States.

The event will also feature the presentation of the editorial project "Rome: Second Star to the Right", created by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the National Institute for Astrophysics. This astronomical-tourist guide of Rome combines astronomy, art, and local heritage, highlighting the astronomical elements found in artworks, architecture, and the history of the capital. The guide will also be available in Spanish.