Gezeravci highlights Türkiye’s space achievements at TRT World Forum

Türkiye’s first astronaut Alper Gezeravci discusses space mission successes and future goals at NEXT by TRT World Forum

At the NEXT by TRT World Forum, organized by TRT, Türkiye’s first astronaut, Alper Gezeravci, spoke on the program “Beyond the Horizon of the Earth: Exploring the Universe from Outside the Atmosphere,” on Saturday.

Moderated by Reagan Des Vignes, Gezeravci expressed his happiness and pride in achieving one of the ten goals set by the Turkish Space Agency (TUA), established in 2018, by completing a mission involving a Turkish astronaut and scientific research. “This goal is just one of the many objectives our country plans to achieve in the space sector. We will continue to take significant steps to realize these plans in the upcoming period,” he said.

Gezeravci highlighted that becoming an astronaut was once beyond his imagination, a privilege reserved for others. He stressed Türkiye’s milestone achievement of sending its citizen to space for the Republic’s 100th anniversary, marking its inaugural step in human space activities.

Gezeravci oversaw 13 meticulously chosen scientific experiments during his space mission, highlighting their crucial role in laying the groundwork for Türkiye’s future space investments. These experiments aim to contribute significantly to projects targeting the Moon and Mars exploration.

He emphasized Türkiye’s commitment to sustaining its space achievements, drawing strength from its rich history. “Türkiye is one of the few countries capable of working on propulsion system technologies that will ensure the continuation of space exploration,” said Gezeravci.

“We are determined to claim our rightful share in the space sector,” he added.

Gezeravci pointed out that the average age of the team involved in realizing the country’s space mission is 26. “You don’t have to wait until your 50s or 60s to achieve certain things in life. All you need to do is quickly restore the confidence you deserve,” he stated.

He encouraged young people to chase their dreams, saying, “Do not let anyone question the strength you derive from the noble blood flowing in your veins. With the strength we inherit from our ancestors, there is nothing we cannot achieve in the future.”

Gezeravci also confirmed that their projects are progressing according to schedule. He announced that Türkiye’s “first satellite produced with 100% domestic and national capabilities,” the Türksat-6A satellite, would be launched in July.

Addressing the youth, Gezeravci said, “You are the subjects of all the projects our country and state have made for the future.”

Source: AA