The sky has always been a source of mystery throughout human history. The Anatolian lands have hosted many civilizations under the stars, observing this mystery for thousands of years.

Today, Türkiye is marking a new era in this mysterious journey into space. While various scientists in its geography have been engaged in space-related studies for a long time, Türkiye’s true encounter with space dates back to the 20th century.

As a country, Türkiye made significant strides in various space studies in the 20th century, taking its initial steps into space with the establishment of the Istanbul University Astronomy Department in 1933. Acquired in 1936 by the directive of Atatürk, Türkiye's first telescope is still actively serving in the Astronomy Department of Istanbul University today. This historical telescope continues its mission of observing solar surface explosions, making valuable contributions to scientific research. Subsequently, our country, having signed different international agreements related to space, continued its space activities for a long time, primarily with "communication satellites."

 The launch of these satellites began in 1994 with TÜRKSAT 1B, and over the past 30 years, Türkiye has continued satellite and communication studies with projects such as TÜRKSAT, BİLSAT, RASAT, GÖKTÜRK, and İMECE. With these efforts, Türkiye became one of the 30 countries with communication satellites in space.

The Establishment of the Turkish Space Agency and the First Manned Mission

Türkiye's space program gained significant momentum with the establishment of the Turkish Space Agency (TUA) in 2018. Through TUA, our country, creating its own space program, is determined to carve out a solid position for itself internationally. Achievements in observation satellites, communication satellites, and space research indicate Türkiye's aspiration not only to observe but also to actively influence space affairs.

This exciting space journey reached its peak in 2024 when the first Turkish astronaut, Alper Gezeravcı, made history by being sent into space. Gezeravcı successfully conducted 13 scientific experiments during his mission to the space station, attracting global attention.

Alper Gezeravcı's space mission significantly strengthened Türkiye's role in space. Such international collaborations and space missions conducted by the Turkish Space Agency (TUA) are elevating the country's standards in the scientific and technological fields. Gezeravcı's journey to space served as a great source of inspiration for the younger generations, enabling them to envision a future where Türkiye not only observes space but actively participates. Determining Türkiye's place in space is now not just a dream but a real success story.

Near-Future Goals

Looking ahead, one of Türkiye's major goals in space is a journey to the Moon. This is envisioned as a significant milestone in Türkiye's space research that will not only mark an important achievement in the field but also strengthen its international position. As Space Camp Türkiye our aim is to influence young generations to join to our never-ending space journey.

Indigenous Production and Nationalism in Satellite Manufacturing

Türkiye has ambitious goals in satellite technologies as well. The aim is to centralize satellite production under a single roof and develop it using local resources, with the goal of reducing external dependency and ensuring technological independence. This includes the development of satellite systems usable in both military and civilian sectors.

Space Station and Independent Access

Plans to establish a space station are also on Türkiye's agenda to achieve independent access to space. This critical step aims to enable Türkiye to launch its space vehicles from its own territory, facilitating a more active role in space research.

Space Technologies and Industrial Ecosystem

Türkiye aims to develop the space technologies and industrial ecosystem, increase space awareness in society, and train a workforce in this field. The establishment of the Space Technologies Development Zone is planned to encourage research and innovation in this domain, fostering the commercialization of space technologies. Consequently, under the leadership of the Turkish Space Agency (TUA), Türkiye's space studies and research have gained momentum. Goals such as a journey to the Moon, local satellite production, regional positioning systems, space station, and scientific missions indicate that Türkiye is confidently progressing towards becoming a significant player in space.

Efforts in the upcoming period to achieve these goals will further elevate Türkiye's visibility in international space research.

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