Why do astronauts wear space suits? Is the space environment dangerous for humans? In this article, we examined astronaut suits.

Why Do Astronauts Wear Space Suits?
Is the space environment dangerous for humans?
So what could be done to avoid these and similar dangers?
So can every astronaut wear the same spacesuit?
What does the spacesuit protect us from?, Is space hot or cold?, Is there pressure in space?
What do astronauts eat and drink during a spacewalk?
How much does a spacesuit cost?

WHY DO ASTRONAUTS WEAR SPACE SUITS?

Astronauts must be wearing their spacesuits when they get out of their spacecraft and are exposed to the "space environment," but why?

Is the space environment dangerous for humans?

A common definition of space is known as the Karman Line, an imaginary boundary 100 kilometers (62 miles) above mean sea level. Unfortunately, the danger zone after this line is not a suitable environment for humans to live. The most common reason for this is that there is little or no respirable oxygen in that area.

Almost all living organisms utilize oxygen for energy generation. As we breathe in, oxygen enters the lungs and diffuses into the blood. Our lungs, working as a tiny factory, throw out the carbon dioxide molecule formed by 2 oxygen and 1 carbon atom at the end of the process.

Although oxygen deprivation seems to be the only real danger, it is actually only one of the dangers.

So what could be done to avoid these and similar dangers?

If you are going to go to space one day, perhaps the most important thing to take with you may be the spacesuit. Spacesuits are like a small spacecraft and protect astronauts from dangers in space. The Primary Life Support System (PLSS), which looks like a backpack, provides the suit with pressurized oxygen and ventilation while removing carbon dioxide, water vapor, and trace contaminants.

The spacesuits used on the International Space Station today remain there all the time. In other words, astronauts do not have their own space suit. The same spacesuit can be worn by several astronauts, according to the assignments from the Mission Control Center.

So can every astronaut wear the same spacesuit?

As you can imagine, the physical structure of every astronaut is not the same. Some astronauts may be tall, some are short, some may be a little leaner or overweight than others. It is precisely for this reason that astronauts have space suits in three different sizes (small, medium and large) that they use on the International Space Station. Since the connection points of these spacesuit are the same, an astronaut can make a special combination from these three different sizes if needed.

What does the spacesuit protect us from?

First of all, it can eliminate the oxygen deprivation that we mentioned at the beginning for a certain period of time. Each spacesuit has two oxygen tanks that work with a carbon dioxide removal system to allow a 6 to 8.5 hour spacewalk. Afterwards, the astronaut must return to the space station in order to refill the empty oxygen tanks. Another danger is related to the temperature in space.

Is space hot or cold?

Unfortunately, the temperature in space is either too high or too low for the human body to stand. For example, ,if an astronaut would go on a spacewalk without a spacesuit when the sun is shining brightly, he or she would suddenly encounter a temperature of about 120 degrees Celsius with the effect of radiation.

Without the sun, the temperature suddenly drops to about -120 degrees Celsius. This situation happens very, very suddenly because there is no atmosphere in space. Here, the only thing that keeps the astronaut safe in these difficult conditions is again the spacesuit. Another important item on the spacesuit is the Liquid Cooling and Ventilation Garment (LCVG), which incorporates clear plastic tubing through which chilled liquid water flows for body temperature control, as well as ventilation tubes for waste gas removal. Thus, the astronaut can always work comfortably in the spacesuit.

In addition to all these, the astronaut must wear a spacesuit to be protected from pressure, radiation and meteor dust.

Is there pressure in space?

Even though we can't feel it, air is constantly pressing down on us with a tremendous force. We cannot see this force with our eyes, but we constantly experience the results of this effect, especially when driving on steep hills or getting off an airplane. This pressure created by the air and the internal pressure created by the beat of our heart is constantly in balance. As we just explained, there is no air in space. This means that there is no air pressure in space. Therefore, spacesuits are inflated with a certain amount of air, just like a balloon, to apply the necessary external pressure to the astronaut. Thus, the body fluids of astronauts can remain in liquid form during a spacewalk.

Radiation in space

There is a special layer of atmosphere in the world that protects us from the harmful rays of the sun. For this reason, the sun does not affect us that much as long as we don’t fall a sleep under it on a summer day. However, since there is no atmosphere layer in space, the sun's harmful rays, also called radiation, can cause great harm to astronauts. Space suits have layers to protect astronauts from radiation and reflect incoming rays. Also included in the spacesuit is a gold-plated visor section to protect the astronauts' eyes.

Meteor dusts that are faster than a bullet

Meteor dusts are small particles orbiting the earth. You might think; "How could a tiny dust particle hurt an astronaut?". Meteor dusts move in orbit of the Earth at a speed of approximately 24,000 km per hour. Therefore, when any small particle hits an astronaut, it can cause great damage. For this reason, there is a special protection shield in the upper part of the spacesuit and in the area called the Hard Upper Torso, which is similar to the structure of bulletproof vests. Thanks to this shield, the astronaut is protected from the vital damage that a meteor dust can cause.

What do astronauts eat and drink during a spacewalk?

Astronauts may have to take long space walks from time to time. The record belongs to two astronauts, Jim Voss and Susan Helms, who took a spacewalk for 8 hours and 56 minutes. Of course, astronauts can get hungry or thirsty during this long spacewalk. If necessary, you may think that they can go to the space station and have their food. But every minute in space is planned and very important. Taking off a spacesuit, that actually takes 15 minutes to put on with someone's help, can cost the astronaut half an hour, so the astronauts do not prefer to return to the space station and take a lunch break. NASA has found a solution to this issue as well.

Under normal circumstances, menus containing more than 1000 types of food are prepared for the International Space Station astronauts. These menus that include snacks can be consumed by astronauts at the station. There is also a high-calorie chocolate bar, fixed in a space suit helmet close to the mouth, so that astronauts can gain energy on challenging spacewalks. Especially on long spacewalks, astronauts enjoy the meal breaks where they consume these chocolates. Since they cannot use their hands, astronauts consume the chocolate bar by biting on it several times.

The next need of the astronaut consuming a high-calorie chocolate bar is of course water. At this point, a water bag located in the spacesuit helmet and a straw attached to this bag comes to aid. The tip of the straw can be opened and closed using only the mouth.

How much does a spacesuit cost?

The cost of a spacesuit is set at about $12 million. It can be said that this shield is cost-effective considering that a spacesuit is not crafted for every single astronaut and it can be used repeatedly for many years as long as there are no problems with it.

So what is the most expensive piece of a space suit?

Initially, it may look like the most expensive item on the space suit is the Primary Life Support System. This unit, which is responsible for adjusting the oxygen and the temperature levels, contains several electronic devices. However, in terms of cost, the parts that NASA spends the most are the gloves of the astronauts. Spacesuit gloves are the main limiting factor when it comes to working in space. Astronauts usually handle from 70 to 110 tools, tethers and associated equipment for a typical spacewalk. Like an inflated balloon, the fingers of the gloves resist the effort to bend them. Astronauts must fight that pressure with every movement of their hand, which is exhausting and sometimes results in injury. Furthermore, the joints of the glove are subject to wear that can lead to life-threatening leaks. For this reason, the gloves are specially designed to aid astronauts' mobility.

In a nutshell, spacesuits are basically wearable spacecrafts and can not only keep astronauts alive, but also feed them, allow them to communicate, and even be used as a toilet.

So what kind of spacesuits will we see in the coming years?

When NASA sends astronauts to explore near the Moon's South Pole as part of the "Artemis Program", the moonwalkers will wear space suits provided by Axiom Space. NASA selected the Axiom company to develop modern suits for the Artemis III mission and unveiled the first prototype on Wednesday, March 15, during an event at Space Center Houston in Texas.

"NASA's partnership with Axiom is critical to landing astronauts on the Moon. Building on NASA's years of research and expertise, Axiom's next-generation spacesuits will not only enable the first woman to walk on the Moon, but will also open opportunities for more people to explore and conduct more science on the Moon than ever before," said officials.

Artemis III will land astronauts on the Moon, including the first woman, to advance long-term lunar exploration and scientific discovery and inspire the Artemis Generation. NASA has selected Axiom Space to deliver the moonwalk system, including the spacesuit for the mission. The spacesuit, called the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit, or AxEMU, is based on NASA's spacesuit prototype developments and includes cutting-edge technology, enhanced mobility and additional protection against lunar hazards.

NASA experts defined the technical and safety standards to which the spacesuits would be built, and Axiom Space agreed to meet these essential agency requirements. AxEMU has the range of motion and flexibility needed to explore more of the lunar landscape, and the suit is designed to fit a wide range of crew members, which includes at least 90 percent of the US male and female population. Axiom Space will continue to apply modern technological innovations in life support systems, pressurized suits and avionics as development continues. The company will test the suit in a space-like environment before the mission.

Following Artemis III, the agency will compete with future Artemis mission services under the Exploration Extravehicular Activity Services (xEVAS) contract. NASA is using the contract to fulfill the agency's spacewalk needs for both the Moon and the International Space Station. The agency recently issued a task order to Collins Aerospace, which is also competing under the xEVAS contract, to develop new spacesuits for astronauts to wear during spacewalks on the space station. Both firms will compete for future spacewalk and moonwalk services mission orders.

By landing the first woman and the first person of color on the Moon via Artemis, NASA will pave the way for a long-term, sustainable lunar presence to explore the lunar surface more than ever before and prepare for future Mars astronaut missions.

Would you like to be an astronaut? If you were an astronaut, what kind of spacesuit would you like to wear? You can share your comments with your friends on the following social media channels.

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INTERNATIONAL SUMMER CAMPS

Discover the thrill of international summer camps with Space Camp Turkey's exclusive programs for kids! At Space Camp Turkey, we offer international summer camps tailored for kids aged 9-16 years old. As a world-renowned leader in space sciences and technology education, we are one of only two centers(*) of our kind. Join us for a summer filled with educational enrichment, thrilling experiences, and endless fun.

If you are an expat living in Turkey or planning a trip and searching for a safe and "exciting international summer camp" for your child, look no further, because Space Camp Turkey is the place to be! Give your child a summer full of cultural exchange and unique hands-on space science experiences with students from around the world at Space Camp Turkey. With over two decades of experience, our programs offer the perfect blend of education and fun for kids. But don't wait too long, as spots are filling up fast! Your child deserves a summer filled with adventure and memories, and Space Camp Turkey is the perfect opportunity for just that.

For detailed information about our 2025 summer camp programs full of hands-on scientific activities and fun, please visit our "2025 International Summer Camp for Teens and Kids! Blast Off to Adventure!" blog.

[description] => Join the 2025 International Summer Camps of Space Camp Turkey and embark on a journey of learning and excitement! Space Camp Turkey is a Leading Center for Space and Science Education in Europe and Asia! [keywords] => international summer camps, unforgettable summer filled with education, unique international summer camp atmosphere, international summer camp with fun activities, [extra] => [{"key":"","value":""}] [created_date] => 2023-02-07 09:32:06 [updated_date] => 2025-06-19 17:28:37 [lang] => en [active] => 1 [search] => 1 [facebook_piksel] => ) [1] => stdClass Object ( [id] => 963 [parent] => 23 [order] => 3 [lang_id] => e9464341e88bfb9e90d31b224858f0a3 [title] => Recent Developments in the Search for Extraterrestrial Life [subtitle] => 28.02.2025 [header_img] => 0 [list_img] => upload/media/en_list_img3.png [summary] => The question of whether we are alone in the vast universe is one of humanity’s greatest curiosities. For years, scientists have been searching for an answer using telescopes, spacecraft, and radio signals. Recent developments suggest that extraterrestrial life might be closer than we previously thought. Let’s take a look at some of the most exciting discoveries in recent times. [content] =>

Miranda: Could Uranus’ Icy Moon Harbor Life?

One of the most intriguing moons in the Solar System, Miranda, has recently been the subject of a remarkable discovery. Researchers at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory have found evidence suggesting that a massive ocean may exist beneath the surface of this small, icy moon—potentially as deep as 30 kilometers. If this subsurface ocean still exists and has the right chemical conditions, it could provide a suitable environment for microbial life. Scientists are now emphasizing the importance of planning a new exploration mission to Uranus and its moons.

Organic Molecules and Signs of Life on Mars

The Red Planet, Mars, has long been at the center of the search for extraterrestrial life. NASA’s Perseverance and Curiosity rovers continue to investigate traces of past water and organic molecules on its surface. Perseverance’s excavations in Jezero Crater have uncovered organic compounds that might hold clues about microorganisms that once lived on Mars. Since these molecules were found in an ancient lakebed, they suggest that Mars may have had habitable conditions in the past.

Enceladus: A Key Ingredient for Life Discovered!

Saturn’s ice-covered moon, Enceladus, has been on scientists' radar for years due to its subsurface oceans. However, a recent discovery has made it even more fascinating. Research has revealed that Enceladus' ocean contains abundant phosphorus, a crucial element for DNA and cellular energy production. This finding suggests that Enceladus could offer a suitable environment for microbial life. In light of this data, scientists are planning to send a dedicated spacecraft to explore Enceladus in the future.

SETI and the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence

If we are not alone in the universe, perhaps other civilizations are listening to us as well. That is precisely why the SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) project is scanning deep space for radio signals that might be evidence of intelligent extraterrestrial life. Although some intriguing signals have been detected in recent years, none have been definitively confirmed as coming from an alien civilization. However, scientists remain hopeful and continue listening to the universe with increasingly advanced technology.

Is Oxygen Production on the Moon Possible?

The Moon is seen as humanity’s next destination in space exploration. However, one of the biggest challenges for long-term human settlements is the lack of life support systems. Chinese scientists have proposed an innovative idea—artificial photosynthesis on the lunar surface to produce oxygen and fuel. This system could be a major step toward sustainable life on the Moon and could pave the way for future lunar bases.

We May Not Be Alone!

All these discoveries suggest that extraterrestrial life may be much closer than we once imagined. Perhaps one day in the future, we will find living organisms somewhere in the Solar System or beyond. Scientists are working tirelessly with ever-advancing technology to answer this question. Who knows—maybe we are not alone… and maybe we are on the brink of discovering the truth!

[description] => Are we alone in the universe? Recent discoveries on Mars, Enceladus, and Miranda suggest that extraterrestrial life may be closer than we think. Explore the latest breakthroughs in space exploration, from subsurface oceans to organic molecules, and learn how scientists are searching for signs of life beyond Earth. [keywords] => extraterrestrial life, search for alien life, space exploration, discoveries, signs of life beyond Earth, NASA Mars mission, organic molecules on Mars, Miranda Uranus moon, Enceladus ocean life, SETI radio signals, habitable moons in the Solar System, oxygen production on the Moon, future space missions, microbial life in space, Uranus and its moons [extra] => [{"key":"","value":""}] [created_date] => 2025-03-13 15:19:20 [updated_date] => 2025-03-13 15:22:14 [lang] => en [active] => 1 [search] => 1 [facebook_piksel] => ) [2] => stdClass Object ( [id] => 951 [parent] => 23 [order] => 4 [lang_id] => c9fafca3212ba45897dd0caaf8f22ce8 [title] => Sustainability and Environmental Protection in Space [subtitle] => 06.07.2024 [header_img] => 0 [list_img] => upload/media/surdurulebilir-cevre1.jpg [summary] => Space exploration is one of humanity's most exciting and significant endeavors. It allows us to discover new horizons, enhance our knowledge of the universe, and advance our technology. However, space exploration must also be sustainable for our planet Earth and future generations. [content] =>

Sustainability in space exploration is not just an environmental issue. It is also essential from economic, social, and ethical perspectives. Building a sustainable future in space requires collaboration among all stakeholders and the development of innovative solutions.

Environmental Impacts of Space Exploration

Space exploration can pose various environmental challenges, from rocket fuel emissions to the environmental impacts of launch sites. Focusing on the long-term environmental effects of space debris and activities in space is crucial. However, steps toward sustainability in space also include using innovative materials, cleaning up space debris, and developing farming capabilities in space. These approaches play a significant role in reducing the environmental impacts of space exploration and using space resources more efficiently.

Steps to Sustainable Space Exploration

Waste Reduction: Space debris poses a significant threat to space exploration. Old satellites, rocket parts, and other debris orbit the Earth and risk colliding with space vehicles. To mitigate this risk, it is important to develop methods that produce less waste and retrieve or eliminate objects leaving orbit.

Resource Usage: Space exploration is associated with the use of valuable resources such as water, energy, and raw materials. It is important to use these resources more efficiently in space and reduce the amount of resources transported from Earth.

Preservation of Space Environment: Space exploration can pollute the space environment and harm Earth's ozone layer. To minimize these effects, developing cleaner space vehicles and rocket engines, as well as promoting international cooperation in monitoring and preserving space environment, are important.

Space Ethics: Space exploration raises ethical issues such as the fair use of space resources and prevention of potential conflicts in space. Establishing an international framework on these issues is crucial for ensuring a sustainable future in space.

Space Economy: Space exploration also offers new job opportunities and economic growth potential. Developing and commercializing space technologies and services can make space exploration more sustainable and increase its potential benefits to Earth.

Sustainability in Space and its Relationship with Earth

The relationship between space exploration and the planet Earth is complex and multifaceted. On one hand, space exploration allows us to see Earth from a new perspective and better understand its fragility, thus advancing our sustainability efforts on our planet. On the other hand, space activities can lead to negative impacts threatening sustainability, such as space debris and pollution.

For example, old satellites, rocket parts, and other debris orbiting space pose dangers to space vehicles and can fall back to Earth causing harm or increasing the costs of space exploration. Additionally, emissions from space vehicles and launches can pollute the space environment and harm Earth's ozone layer, exacerbating climate change and other environmental issues.

Therefore, it is of utmost importance for countries and companies engaged in space activities to proceed with caution, paying attention to the issues mentioned in the first section.

Future Space Projects and Environmentally Friendly Approaches

As technology advances, adopting eco-friendly approaches in space projects becomes increasingly important. Efforts such as electric-propelled rockets, more efficient and environmentally friendly methods for space mining, and recycling systems on space stations shape the future of sustainability in space.

In conclusion, the principles of "sustainability and environmental protection" should not be overlooked in space exploration. Efforts in these areas will ensure the continuation of space discoveries and offer a more livable future for our planet.

[description] => [keywords] => Sustainability in Space Exploration, Space Environmental Protection, Space Debris, Space Ethics, Sustainable Space Technology, Space Resource Management, Eco-friendly Space Projects, Space Economy, Future Space Projects, Space Sustainability Challenges, Green Space Exploration, Environmental Impact of Space Exploration, Space Pollution, Sustainable Space Innovation, Ethical Space Activities [extra] => [{"key":"","value":""}] [created_date] => 2024-08-12 15:57:35 [updated_date] => 2024-08-12 16:09:09 [lang] => en [active] => 1 [search] => 1 [facebook_piksel] => ) [3] => stdClass Object ( [id] => 938 [parent] => 23 [order] => 5 [lang_id] => 4eef2ed4ce83651e429870b299d670ca [title] => Artificial Intelligence and Space Exploration [subtitle] => 04.04.2024 [header_img] => 0 [list_img] => upload/media/en_list_img10.jpg [summary] => Artificial intelligence, a rapidly advancing technology in recent years, has had profound impacts on various sectors. When it comes to its effects on human life, artificial intelligence offers many positive contributions. Automation systems and smart devices generated through artificial intelligence make people's daily lives easier and more comfortable. [content] =>

Space, on the other hand, is an expression of humanity's endless curiosity and exploration. Every day, various space vehicles and observation systems are used to gather information about new planets, stars, and galaxies. However, space exploration is a large-scale and complex process, and human skills can sometimes be insufficient in areas such as data analysis, navigation, mission planning, and risk management required by this process. It is precisely at this point that artificial intelligence comes into play and forms a powerful alliance to push the boundaries of human exploration in space.

The importance of artificial intelligence in space exploration is significant, just like in other aspects of life. Artificial intelligence, which makes our lives easier in every field, also provides great support while exploring space.

Below, we share some of the methods by which artificial intelligence facilitates space exploration.

Space Observation and Data Analysis

Large datasets from satellites and space vehicles are often too massive to be processed manually by humans. This is where artificial intelligence comes in; deep learning algorithms, data analytics, and image processing techniques can quickly analyze this data. For instance, artificial intelligence algorithms applied to images taken by observation satellites can identify important information such as environmental changes, land use changes, or potential risks. This enables the collection of crucial data on various topics like monitoring natural disasters, improving agricultural productivity, or tracking water resources.

Space Missions and Automation

Artificial intelligence is used to manage and automate space missions. With its ability to make complex decisions and adapt to environmental conditions, space vehicles can operate more efficiently. For example, artificial intelligence-supported algorithms can be used to direct research on the surface of Mars. Researchers can benefit from AI-based systems to analyze data collected by space vehicles and determine new objectives.

Space Debris and Threat Management

The increasing amount of space debris poses a serious threat to future space missions. Artificial intelligence can be used to monitor space debris, predict collision risks, and take preventive measures. Furthermore, AI-based systems can be developed to clean up and manage space debris. These systems are crucial for ensuring the safety of spacecraft operating in space and ensuring the success of future space missions.

Navigation and Rotation Planning

Navigation and rotation planning for space vehicles is highly complex. Artificial intelligence can assist space vehicles in determining the most optimal routes, quickly adapting to environmental variables, and minimizing navigation errors. This ensures safer and more efficient travel for space vehicles.

Exploration and Predicting the Unknown

There are many unexplored areas and mysteries in space. Artificial intelligence can analyze space data to make new discoveries, predict unknown phenomena, and unravel mysteries in the depths of the universe. This allows humanity to gain more understanding and make new discoveries in the cosmos.

The collaboration between artificial intelligence and space exploration in these areas can help humanity advance its presence in space more effectively, safely, and with a spirit of discovery. In the future, the widespread development of AI-supported space vehicles and systems is expected to continue, making it possible to push the boundaries of space exploration and unlock the mysteries of the universe.

Astronaut Assistants

Artificial intelligence has become a focal point for scientists developing intelligent assistants to support astronauts in real space missions. These AI-supported assistants aim to enhance the safety and efficiency of space missions by addressing various challenges that astronauts may encounter. For instance, they can detect hazardous situations such as increased carbon dioxide levels in spacecraft and provide astronauts with alerts. Additionally, by identifying sensor malfunctions in advance, they can expedite the problem-solving process for the crew.

For example, the AI assistant named Cimon was sent to the International Space Station in December 2019 and successfully used by astronauts. Such assistants have the capabilities to analyze data, perform various tasks, and provide guidance to astronauts in emergency situations. Furthermore, AI-powered robots like Robonaut developed by NASA can collaborate with humans to undertake risky tasks and play a crucial role in ensuring astronauts' safety.

These advancements in artificial intelligence not only contribute to safer space exploration and research but also enhance the efficiency of processes involved in these endeavors.

[description] => [keywords] => Artificial Intelligence, Space Exploration, planets, stars, and galaxies, exploring space, Space Observation, space vehicles, deep learning algorithms, data analytics, image processing techniques, Space Missions, artificial intelligence-supported algorithms, surface of Mars, AI-based systems, space debris, future space missions, AI-based systems, depths of the universe, AI-supported assistants, AI assistant named Cimon, International Space Station, AI-powered robots, Robonaut developed by NASA [extra] => [{"key":"","value":""}] [created_date] => 2024-04-03 16:20:00 [updated_date] => 2024-04-04 11:03:15 [lang] => en [active] => 1 [search] => 1 [facebook_piksel] => ) [4] => stdClass Object ( [id] => 936 [parent] => 23 [order] => 6 [lang_id] => 7455e36a19daead76eaf99fb48ddd24e [title] => Türkiye's Place in Space: Past, Present, and Future [subtitle] => 03.12.2024 [header_img] => 0 [list_img] => upload/media/alper-gezeravci1.png [summary] => 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. [content] =>

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.

[description] => Türkiye's Place in Space: Past, Present, and Future. 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. [keywords] => Turkish Space Agency (TUA), the first Turkish astronaut, Alper Gezeravcı, Türkiye's visibility in international space research, Space Technologies Development Zone, [extra] => [{"key":"","value":""}] [created_date] => 2024-03-14 16:46:22 [updated_date] => 2024-03-29 16:56:51 [lang] => en [active] => 1 [search] => 1 [facebook_piksel] => ) )