Japan’s two new astronauts have expressed their hope to contribute what they can in the era of intense space development.
Suwa Makoto and Yoneda Ayu spoke to reporters on Wednesday after the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, or JAXA, officially certified them as astronauts.
Suwa said he aspires to be an astronaut who can bring back scientific results to Earth by adapting to the ever-changing environment during the transition period of space development.
Yoneda said she wants to convey to children the fascination of the universe and the fun of working hard toward a goal, while she thinks about how she can contribute at a time of rapid space development.
Suwa and Yoneda were chosen as astronaut candidates last year in JAXA’s first selection program in 14 years. They had since been undergoing a basic training course, which included experiencing a near zero gravity environment and piloting small aircraft.
They may take part in an international lunar exploration project, and could be the first Japanese to step onto the moon.
Suwa said aiming to reach the moon has enormous scientific significance, and the idea of going to the moon itself is exciting for him. He also said that as lunar exploration will be a major project for the next 10 to 20 years, he wants to receive training while thinking about what he can do.
JAXA says the new astronauts will take part in training in the United States for about six months from November. The agency also says they will continue training to maintain and improve their skills and physical strength as astronauts.