Imagine standing on the International Space Station, gazing out at the endless expanse of space as you observe the slow but steady movement of Earth that is home to us all. It is inevitable to think of unity, a planet that has cradled and supported all forms of life as we know it since it first started more than 3 billion years ago. 

Today, a small portion of the plethora of life forms on this little blue marble have the ability to step out, ready to explore the universe beyond with an urging crave for the unknown. As we do so, we must ask ourselves, how are we stepping out into space as humans? What values are we bringing with us and how are we being represented? What are we leaving behind as we explore further and further away from home? 

A flag that flutters against the backdrop of Earth, it reminds us of a symbol not of division, but of unity. A flag that represents a future where human identity transcends national borders, stepping into space not as separate nations, but as one united species. As we look at the planet from orbit, we are reminded of how small and interconnected we truly are. 

The Earth flag, carried into space in this image, symbolizes our shared responsibility to protect our home, our collective potential, and our boundless curiosity to explore beyond our limits. It’s a call to action for us to come together, as ambassadors of all humanity, forging a future where collaboration knows no boundaries and where the dream of peaceful exploration becomes a reality for generations to come. As we explore the wonders of space beyond our home, let us remember that we do so as a collective by bringing one flag in space, a flag of planet Earth.

Photo by Suni Williams