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All astronauts and cosmonauts are aware of the fact that we have to take risks. This awareness is inextricably linked to the determination that we have to approach these risks responsibly. Making decisions accompanied by an awareness of risk means "having vision" - and that leads to new strategies. Being responsible means achieving results.
It is probably true that manned space activities have reached a turning point. The International Space Station (ISS), which requires huge amounts of money for its construction and operation, has been a heavy burden for space-related organizations in many countries. What are manned space activities for? What is the meaning of the ISS mission? These are questions we have to answer. I would even accept the decision to abandon the pursuit of the ISS and manned space activities if we should come to that conclusion as a result of thorough discussion. I believe that it would be totally unacceptable if we astronauts and cosmonauts insisted on the continuation of these missions by simply saying "Let us fly because we want to!"
On the other hand, it is also true that through this congress I have renewed my belief that many people will understand the meaning of human space missions. This is why we have issued the following joint declaration:
"We strive to help the cultures cultivated in different countries to contribute to the future space exploration. We strive to share the experiences obtained from outer space as a worldwide culture. And we commit to protect the global environment and each culture in the world, to develop further the humankind possibility, and to hand on our wisdom to the next generations flying out into space."
This declaration contains various messages: high expectations toward Japan; the importance of education; challenges to continue to explore space; love for the Earth, and so on. High expectations toward Japan also mean expectations toward JAXA, which has become the sole space agency in Japan. The congress made stronger my belief that it is high time for Japan to have a clear vision, come up with effective strategies, and show them to the world. |
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Nine Japanese astronauts who participated in the congress (left to right, Doi, Hoshide, Mukai, Wakata, Akiyama, Mohri, Sumino, Furukawa, Noguchi) |
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