JAXA Astronaut Activity Report, August 2005

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This is JAXA's Japanese astronaut primary activity report for August 2005.

Japanese Astronauts’ support role for the STS-114 Mission.

Astronaut Mohri hosting a video conference at the Prime Minister's Official Residence

While Astronaut Noguchi was flying on the STS-114 mission, the other Japanese Astronauts served in a variety of roles to support the mission.Astronaut Mohri hosted a video conference originating from the Prime Minister's Official Residence on flight day 10.Astronaut Mohri also supported the media, including TV.Astronaut Wakata and Astronaut Doi held a media briefing covering the spacewalks conducted by Astronaut Noguchi.Astronaut Mukai supported the family of Astronaut Noguchi and invited guests.

Mission Specialist Candidate Training

In August, Astronauts Furukawa, Hoshide, and Yamazaki continued with their Space Shuttle Mission Specialist training. The three participated in a workshop conducted as part of their training to prepare them for long-term stays aboard the ISS, as well as Space Shuttle system training, ISS training and T-38 flight training.They also held a media press conference.

Space Shuttle System Training

The lectures on the Space Shuttle System continue, as well as training on how to respond to anomalies (malfunction training) using a simulator.The training is now at Tier 7, and the final assessment exams for the each subsystem of the Shuttle have started.Also, operation training in which the ASCANs are divided up into small groups and perform the necessary tasks using a simulator has started.The aim of this training is to develop and enhance cooperation skills amongst the crew members.

ISS Training

The lectures on each subsystem at an operator’s level, such as on operational network, Electrical Power Supply, and Crew Health Care system of the ISS, were given, in addition to skill training.The final assessment exams for each of the systems are being conducted.

Long-term stay training

The three astronauts have participated in a workshop, which is part of the preparation for an expedition to the ISS. During this workshop, Peggy Whitson (ISS Expedition 5) and Michael Fincke (ISS Expedition 9) talked about their experience during their long-term stay aboard the ISS. The three astronauts also participated in a training exercise where they learned about different cultures, such as how each country’s culture may affect communication.

Mission Specialist Candidates Media Conference

During the STS-114 mission, the three Japanese ASCANs held a press conference to report on their Mission Specialist training activities at the Johnson Space Center. The three reported on their training activities, such as water survival training, T-38 flight training, and Space Shuttle System training using a simulator, to the journalists who were in attendance. Astronaut Hoshide also talked about the process of designing a patch, as well as the meaning behind the patch’s design.

Pencil Rocket Festival

Astronaut Mohri at the Opening of the Festival

On August 19, Astronaut Mohri participated in the Pencil Rocket Festival, which marked the 50th anniversary of the Pencil Rocket celebration, at Makuhari Messe.Approximately 4,100 people visited the site on that day.By telephone, Astronaut Doi participated in a talk and quiz session hosted by Astronaut Mohri.There was also a drawing with Astronaut Doi's autographed portrait as the prize.

Thailand Science 2005

Astronaut Wakata explaining an exhibit	Astronaut Wakata giving a lecture

On August 23 and 24, Astronaut Wakata participated in “Thailand Science 2005” held at the IMPAC Arena, Exhibition and Convention Center in Thailand.

An opening ceremony was held before the exhibit's official opening to the public.Over 500 people participated, including Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, the Science and Technology Minister, and members of the ThaiAcademy of Science and Technology. When the Princess stopped by our Pavilion, Astronaut Wakata explained about life in space.On the second day, Astronaut Wakata gave a lecture and the room was packed with enthusiastic visitors who asked many questions.

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