Mayor receives award from astronauts
recognizing climate leadership

SEATTLE – Mayor Greg Nickels accepted an Alexei Leonov medallion award for his climate protection leadership from the Association of Space Explorers (ASE) at its annual planetary congress.

Each year during the Congress, ASE gives out Alexei Leonov medallion awards to a scientist and/or community leader who has contributed to the mission of the ASE.  This year, they decided to give out two environmental awards because of their theme, “Exploring Space, Inspiring Planetary Stewardship,” and Seattle’s environmental leadership.

It is the first time that an elected official has been recognized. Past recipients of the Alexei Leonov medallion award include Pope John Paul II, Lech Walesa, and Jacques-Yves Cousteau.

“Astronauts have seen our planet from a different perspective than most of us, and I’m honored that they would recognize our efforts to combat global warming,” said Nickels. “These explorers have inspired so many people all over the world that one person can make a difference.”

The Association of Space Explorers (ASE) is an international nonprofit professional and educational organization of over 320 individuals from 32 nations who have flown in space.

The ASE is holding their annual Planetary Congress in Seattle, only the third time it has been in the United States.  It was also held in Washington D.C. and Salt Lake City.

Cosmonaut Alexei Leonov was the first man to walk in space in 1965 and is current co-chair of the Association. He also is a world famous space artist and designed the medallion. 

Mayor Nickels is being recognized along with Kathy Fletcher from People for Puget Sound. 

The Planetary Congress is ASE's primary forum for professional exchange among U.S., Russian and international astronauts and cosmonauts. It is designed to promote the exchange of space flight experiences and technical information concerning space operations, scientific research, mission development and astronaut training. The week-long Congress affords a unique opportunity for communication between members of the international space community, government agencies and the public.

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