Former Malaysian Prime Minister, Tun Mahathir Mohamad, recently visited the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in Tsukuba, approximately 50km from Tokyo. The visit provided insights into Japan's extensive experience in space exploration, ranging from small rocketry projects to active involvement in the International Space Station (ISS) operations alongside Russian and American counterparts.
JAXA's contributions extend beyond their own missions; they conduct experiments and launch rockets on behalf of other countries, exemplified by the UAE's collaboration with JAXA in their pursuit of space exploration.
The exhibition showcased a range of space satellites, including a full-scale replica of the astronauts' living quarters, offering a tangible glimpse into their daily lives. The space station, with an impressive 8-foot diameter, allows astronauts to move freely without wearing space suits due to its controlled climate, mirroring Earth's conditions. However, for extravehicular activities and maintenance work, astronauts must don specialized space suits equipped with oxygen supplies.
Tun Mahathir engaged with Dr. Hiroshi Yamakawa, the President of JAXA, and his team, delving into various topics, including the issue of space debris. Currently, there are approximately 50,000 debris objects orbiting Earth, yet there is no conclusive evidence indicating a direct impact on climate.
The discussion also ventured into the intricacies of launching rockets into space and their docking procedures with the ISS. Tun Mahathir marveled at the complexity of the calculations involved, considering the dynamic movements of both Earth and the spacecraft.
Reflecting on Malaysia's own foray into space, Tun Mahathir recalled the launch of the first satellite, MEASAT 1, in 1996. He highlighted that Malaysia has made strides in satellite technology, including the launch of geostationary satellites for broadcast purposes and sending Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor as the first Malaysian astronaut to the ISS.
Regarding climate change, Tun Mahathir expressed his belief in the Earth's cyclical nature of climate shifts, citing historical epochs such as the age of dinosaurs, ice ages, and the eventual emergence of conditions conducive to human habitation.
The visit to JAXA offered Tun Mahathir valuable insights into Japan's pioneering efforts in space exploration and provided an opportunity for fruitful discussions on various topics related to space and climate change. The experience reaffirmed the importance of international collaboration in advancing our understanding of the cosmos and our planet's environment.
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