Antalya:Turkey and Italy are exploring the possibilities of expanding their partnership in space exploration, as discussed at the 77th International Astronautical Congress in Antalya, southern Turkey. Officials emphasized the potential for joint missions and a cooperative framework extending over the next decade.
According to Anadolu Agency, the congress, organized by the International Astronautical Federation, is hosted by Turkey's Industry and Technology Ministry along with the Turkish Space Agency (TUA) and SAHA Istanbul. The event aims to build on the two countries' collaboration for the Axiom Mission 3 to the International Space Station in 2024.
Giuseppe Manzo, Italy's Ambassador to Ankara, noted that space cooperation was a topic of discussion between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during a meeting at the NATO summit in Ankara this July. He underscored space as a priority for both nations, highlighting their historical ties as a foundation for future space partnerships.
Mario Cospito, special commissioner of the Italian Space Agency, mentioned that efforts are underway to formalize a 2025 memorandum of understanding into a practical joint mission. This framework aims to cover a broad range of space activities with shared technological goals.
Arif Karabeyoglu, a board member of the Turkish Space Agency, announced Turkey's intention to launch a domestically developed spacecraft to the Moon in early 2027, as part of its ambitious space roadmap. Other objectives include establishing a Turkish spaceport and potential collaboration with Italy, leveraging its launch facilities in Kenya.
Turkey's first astronaut, Brig. Gen. Alper Gezeravci, reflected on the impact of sending a Turkish citizen into space, stating it has broadened the horizons for younger generations. He also commended Italy's support in aviation, noting the strong partnership between the two countries.
Italian astronaut Walter Villadei, who trained with Gezeravci for the Axiom Mission 3, highlighted the significance of trust among crew members and the opportunities for strengthened bilateral partnerships in space exploration. Massimo Comparini, managing director of Leonardo's space division, emphasized the rapid changes in the space industry and the critical role of space technologies in sustainability.