Turkey’s First Space Traveler Gets Ready for Low-Earth Orbit Mission
Turkey’s first space traveler, Alper Gezeravci, is preparing for an exciting mission to low-Earth orbit. Speaking at the prestigious technology and aerospace event, TEKNOFEST, Gezeravci expressed his pride in being part of a story that belongs to every Turkish citizen.
During his 14-day mission, Gezeravci will conduct various scientific experiments. His training began in the United States in 2023 and has since taken him to Japan and Germany. The Turkish Space Agency is set to launch him into space by the end of the same year.
Gezeravci, a pilot in the Turkish Air Force, will travel to the International Space Station as part of his mission. His teammate, Tuva Cihangir Atasever, a system engineer at Turkish missile producer Roketsan, has been selected as a reserve candidate in the field of space launch systems.
Turkey established its own space agency in 2018, announcing a comprehensive space program in 2019 that included crewed space missions. Gezeravci and Atasever were chosen as the country’s pioneers in space travel during TEKNOFEST’s Istanbul edition.
Attending TEKNOFEST, Gezeravci and Atasever are currently on a short trip and will return to Houston, USA, to resume their training after the event. Gezeravci emphasized the rigorous technical and theoretical preparation they are undergoing to carry out their scientific space mission successfully.
Atasever encouraged young people to pursue their interests relentlessly and stressed the importance of ambitious dreams that can be transformed into concrete goals.
Turkey’s entry into the world of space exploration reflects its growing prominence in the field of technology and innovation. With the Turkish Space Agency leading the way, the nation is positioning itself as a significant player on the global stage of space exploration and research.
In conclusion, Alper Gezeravci, Turkey’s first space traveler, is poised to embark on a remarkable journey to low-Earth orbit. As he prepares for this historic mission, his dedication and commitment serve as an inspiration to aspiring scientists and space enthusiasts worldwide. With Turkey’s growing presence in the space sector, the country is making its mark on the global space exploration landscape.