Dr Faiz Still Hopeful To Go Into Space

KANGAR, Nov 15 (Bernama) -- Mejar Dr Faiz Khalid still has high hopes to be the country's second astronaut even as there are those who want the programme to be reviewed.

He said he was ready to go to the International Space Station (ISS) and has not stopped training in order to be ready for space.

"The programme should be continued to put Malaysia up there with other developed countries in space exploration," he told Bernama today.

Faiz was met here after attending the Science and Technology Week organised by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.

"We have started this programme and if it is terminated it would be a loss," he said.

The country's first astronaut, Datuk Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha, had said the programme need not be continued as it was costly while the ministry's deputy minister Fadhillah Yusof had said that the programme slated for 2011 or 2012 needed to be reviewed due to economic factors.

"Society understands and sees this from a different angle of the actual mission of the government to have the programme and not just to send someone to the ISS," said Faiz.

The national space programme began in 2003 when Russia agreed to send a Malaysian to the ISS as part of a deal for Malaysia to buy 18 Sukhoi 30-MKM fighter jets worth RM3.42 bilion.

The country's first astronaut had spent 12 days on the ISS last October.

-- BERNAMA

Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar's Family Sad Over "RM1.2 Million" Newspaper Report

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 10 (Bernama) -- The family of astronaut Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha is sad and disappointed over a newspaper report that he has amassed RM1.2 million from giving talks since last year.

His brother Sheikh Taufik Shukor Al Masrie said the family regretted that Dr Sheikh Muszaphar's untiring efforts to share his aerospace experience with the young generation was manipulated by certain people.

"We did not ask for any credit be given to him, just sad that he had been treated this way," he told Bernama in an exclusive interview here Monday.

Sheikh Taufik described the report as a "grave tragedy" as it was reported by a newspaper belonging to an opposition party that claimed to uphold Islam.

"They do not give a hoot to our aerospace venture, unlike other Muslim countries that were proud of his (Dr Sheikh Muszaphar) achievement. I do not understand why they want to destroy our future."

Sheikh Taufik said the claim that his brother received RM8,000 per hour for giving talks was not true at all.

He did not deny that many people had acted as middlemen or third parties to arrange for the astronaut to deliver talks or just to motivate people.

"Schools normally come directly to me or my brother and no money is involved. However, for non-governmental organisations and the private sector, there are many middlemen who manipulate the situation."This can give rise to things that may lead to such claims," he said when commenting when a report by an opposition newspaper that Dr Sheikh Muszaphar charged RM8,000 per hour for talks.

The report said the astronaut had amassed RM1.2 million from 150 corporations since his return from the International Space Station (ISS) in Oct last year.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar on Sunday denied that he had had asked for specific amounts to deliver talks on his aerospace experience.

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili had said Dr Sheikh Muszaphar and Major Dr Faiz Khaleed were contracted to the ministry until Dec 31 and thus could not charge for giving talks.

His deputy Fadillah Yusof was reported as saying the ministry would investigate the report.

Sheikh Taufik said he had wanted to reply to the report but was advised against it as it would be a waste of time.

"Their job is to pit one person against another and to rundown the government," he added.

On Dr Sheikh Muszaphar's reaction, he said although the astronaut was disappointed, it was nothing compared to what he had to go through before becoming an astronaut."My brother was calm and said the truth will prevail."

He said Dr Sheikh Muszaphar received many invitations but were careful as he did not want to be seen as a celebrity but an educator.

Meanwhile, his father Datuk Sheikh Mustapha Sheikh Shukor denied those who attended his talks were forced to buy the book "My Journey To Space" that related his experience during training and when at the ISS.

"I hope the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry will defend my son now that he can be considered a son of the state," he added.

-- BERNAMA

No Complaints Received On Dr Sheikh Muszaphar

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 8 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Science, Techonology and Innovation (MOSTI) has not received any official complaints regarding an allegation by a local daily that national astronaut, Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha, charged RM8,000 an hour to give a lecture.

Its minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili said if the allegations were true, the complainant could make an official complaint to the ministry.

"So far we have not received any official complaints. If the newspaper's allegations are true then the complainant can file an official complaint and we will go through the matter to see if it is against the contract (the governmnet has with him)," he said when met after the National Innovation Awards ceremony, here today.

Ongkili explained that the government's contracts with national astronauts Dr Sheikh Muszaphar and Major Dr. Faiz Khaleed will expire on Dec 31.

He said based on the contract signed by the astronauts and the ministry, they must take part in all promotional programmes arranged by the ministry and its agencies.

They are also prohibited from receiving any rewards other than those from the ministry, he said.

When asked if the contracts of both astronauts would be renewed, Ongkili said they proposed to renew Dr Faiz's contract to prepare for the future mission, while they have not received an application from Dr Sheikh Muszaphar to renew his contract.

-- BERNAMA

China Awards Outstanding People In Spacewalk Mission

BEIJING, Nov 7 (Bernama) -- China held a meeting Friday morning to award people who made outstanding contributions to the Shenzhou VII manned space flight, Xinhua news agency reported.

Chinese President Hu Jintao, Premier Wen Jiabao and other top leaders Jia Qinglin, Li Changchun, Xi Jinping, Li Keqiang and He Guoqiang attended the meeting.

Vice-Premier Li Keqiang announced a decision jointly made by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, the State Council and the Central Military Commission, which decides to award Zhai Zhigang with the title of "Space Flight Hero" and Liu Boming and Jing Haipeng with the title of "Heroic Astronaut".

Chinese President Hu Jintao presented the three with medals and certificates to mark their outstanding performance during the spacewalk mission.

He said Chinese astronauts' successful spacewalk was an important milestone in the country's space flight history and was one of the major achievements in building an innovative nation.

Chang Wanquan, chief commander of the manned space project said that the success of Shenzhou VII's space flight showed the great strength of national cohesion and boosted the confidence of people working for space missions to make new achievements.

Chang said that more than 110 research institutes were involved in the mission, and more than 3,000 organizations nationwide were offering co-ordination and helps.

Zhai Zhigang, speaking on behalf of the Shenzhou VII space flight team, said completing the mission successfully was their lifelong dream and biggest honor.

He said the space walk he conducted was a small step of himself but a big step for the Chinese nation.

Shang Zhi, general director of the mission's spacecraft system, said that Chinese scientists and researchers are ready to begin the next phase of space mission, which focusing on the spacecraft's rendezvous and docking in orbit and the manufacture of space laboratory.

-- BERNAMA

Angkasawan Accepted Contributions But Never Demanded A Single Cent

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 16 (Bernama) -- The nation's first astronaut has admitted to accepting contributions when giving talks.However, Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha denies allegations he had received, among others, RM8,000 an hour for giving talks.


He said it was the norm for him to give talks in schools for free."I hope we can resolve this unfortunate incident (allegations) because its negative impact would affect my ability to continue giving talks to schools in the country.


"(Nevertheless) I have spoken to Science, Technology and Innovation Deputy Minister Fadilah Yusof and given a detailed explanation...and he was happy and satisfied with my explanation," he added.


Dr Sheikh Muszaphar was speaking to reporters after flagging off and taking part in the Sixth Batik Fun Walk 2008 here, Sunday.


Meanwhile, Penyayang chairman Nori Abdullah, who organised the walk, was exuberant with the number of participants taking part in the event, especially since some of the proceeds would be donated to the Penyayang Pesakit Kanser charity.


"I am happy with the number of participants taking part this year, which is about 1,200. This is double the number of participants we had last year."It is also heartening to know that these participants will help make life a little easier for cancer patients," she said.


Her husband, Rembau Member of Parliament Khairy Jamaluddin, showed his support for his wife's programme in being a participant in the event.


-- BERNAMA

Review Likely Of Plan To Send Second Astronaut Into Space

PETALING JAYA, Nov 3 (Bernama) -- A review seems likely of the plan to send the country's second astronaut into space in 2011 or 2012 in view of the uncertain global economy.

Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Fadhillah Yusof said today priority had to be given to more important programmes in view of the current economic situation.

Major Dr Faiz Khaleed, the candidate to make the space trip, would continue to attend the scheduled training sessions to create awareness and kindle the interest of young people in science and technology, which is necessary to boost the nation's competitiveness, he told reporters after launching an ISO 26000 seminar on " Guidance on Social Responsibility: Impact on Trade and Social Development in Southeast Asia", here.

Fadhillah said that if necessary the priority for the programme would be lowered or the programme postponed, but the decision would have to be made by the Cabinet.

The National Angkasawan (Astronaut) Programme was launched in 2003 after the Russian government agreed to help send a Malaysian to the International Space Station (ISS) in geo-stationary orbit as part of a technology transfer deal tied with Malaysia's purchase of 18 Russian Sukhoi fighter jets.

Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha became the first Malaysian astronaut when he spent 12 days in the ISS in October last year.

-- BERNAMA

Malaysia's First Planetarium To Be Upgraded Using Warner Bros. Expertise

KUCHING, Oct 17 (Bernama) -- The Sultan Iskandar Planetarium here, Malaysia's first astronomy education centre, is to be upgraded with the possibility of using expertise from Warner Bros, one of the world's largest producers of film and television entertainment.

Science, Technology and Innovation Deputy Minister Fadillah Yusof who disclosed this, said the ministry was prepared to assist the planetarium in this effort.

"The country's first planetarium which has been in operation for 19 years is now in need of upgrading in terms of infrastructure, in line with current technological developments.

"The ministry will cooperate with the Sarawak government to identify aspects or areas which need to be improved in order to continuously draw people to the planetarium and avoid boredom for the visitors.

"If possible, we want to create realistic situations during the screenings at the planetarium," he told reporters after launching its "Mirrordome" digital screening, today.

For instance, Fadillah said, visitors watching on the screen, a rocket being launched into space might "experience" what the astronauts were going through, and his could happen with Warner Bros. expertise.

"Perhaps the seats need to be changed so that the visitors could 'feel' the vibrations when the rocket is launched into space or hit a meteor," he added.

Fadillah said the use of Mirrordome technology was the beginning of the upgrading process, while the initiative of the Sarawak government which was responsible for the daily operations of the Sultan Iskandar Planetarium should be emulated by others.

The Mirrordome technology allows for digital film screening while previously a projector was used for showing the planets and stars to the planetarium visitors.

The technology application was contributed by Paul Bourke, a computer visualisation researcher from the University of Western Australia.

On the state government's request from the federal government to set up a science centre in Sarawak to promote interest in science among the younger generation, Fadillah said his ministry was prepared to study it but the decision would depend on the country's financial situation.

-- BERNAMA

China To Issue Commemorative Coins For Maiden Spacewalk Success

BEIJING, Sept 29 (Bernama) -- The People's Bank of China, the central bank, said on Monday that it would issue a set of gold and silver coins on Oct 10 to commemorate the success of the country's maiden spacewalk.

The issuance comprises 30,000 gold coins, with a face value of 150 yuan (US$22) each, and 60,000 silver coins, with a face value of 10 yuan each, Xinhua reported Monday.

The head of each coin will have the solar system design while the tail will bear a color portrait of a taikonaut conducting a spacewalk and the Chinese words "To commemorate the success of China's first spacewalk", the central bank said.

The coins are produced by Shenyang Mint and will be distributed by the China Gold Coin Inc., it said.

Zhai Zhigang, the first Chinese to walk in outer space, and the other two astronauts in the Shenzhou-7 spacecraft safely returned to earth from a historic mission Sunday afternoon.

The Shenzhou-7 that carried the three astronauts blasted off Thursday evening and flew 68 hours in space which included the 20-minute spacewalk on Saturday

BERNAMA

China's Spacewalk Team Returns To Rousing Welcome In Beijing

BEIJING, Sept 29 (Bernama) -- Hundreds of people lined the streets to give a rousing welcome to China's three astronauts when they returned to the Beijing Aerospace Centre on Monday morning after the space walk mission.

Flight commander Zhai Zhigang, who performed the extra vehicular activity (EVA) and fellow crew members Liu Boming and Jing Haipeng, dressed in blue uniforms and black boots, were garlanded and showed with bouquets, state television showed.

They appeared in good spirits as they waved and smiled to the crowd, each standing in the back of open-top sedans with Zhai in the lead.After the brief parade, the astronauts will undergo two weeks of quarantine to check on their physical condition.

Zhai's walk in space triggered another wave of China patriotism after the country's table-topping golden harvest in the recent Olympic Gamesin Beijing and another remarkable earlier feat of taking the Olympic flame up Mount Everest, the world's highest peak.

The latest Shenzhou VII mission, the third manned flight by China in five years, was closely followed by the Chinese leadership with President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao congratulating the astronauts and shaking hands with ground command centre workers.

"It was a glorious mission, full of challenges with a perfect ending. I feel proud of the motherland," said Zhai after stepping outside the space capsule that landed in Inner Mongolia on Sunday evening.

He had worn a China-made spacesuit, considered another breakthrough for the country's space technology.

Space mission spokesman Wang Zhaoyao revealed China's ambition to aim for a manned moon landing but gave no timetable for that.

The next step is to assemble a space laboratory in 2010 and a space station by 2020.

The eighth and ninth Shenzhou, meaning divine vessel in Chinese, missions are unmanned to test out docking technology.

Shenzhou VIII will lift off "in early 2009, only months from now", an inside source with the project's rocket system told the China Daily.

The launch of Shenzhou IX is also planned for next year, followed by Shenzhou X, the next manned journey to set up the space laboratory.

-- BERNAMA

Shenzhou VII Returns Safely To Earth After Historic Spacewalk

BEIJING, Sept 28 (Bernama) -- China's latest space heroes with flight commander Zhai Zhigang, who performed the country's first space walk, hurled back to earth and landed safely in the central steppes of Inner Mongolia on Sunday evening.

Applause and cheers greeted the three-men crew whose mission was broadcast in great detail over local television since they powered off on a Long March 2F rocket from the Jiuquan satellite launch centre in northwestern Gansu Province on Thursday.

Millions of Chinese were riveted on the 'live' broadcast by state television as the re-entry module floated steadily down to earth, tied to a giant parachute, two days before China's 59th national anniversary.

Premier Wen Jiabao arrived at the Beijing Aerospace Control Centre more than an hour earlier before the capsule's anticipated return 5.44 pm and applauded heartily when it touched ground a few minutes ahead of schedule.

Underscoring the national pride and breakthrough feat, President Hu Jintao was at the Jiuquan centre to see the astronauts off and he was again at the Beijing centre to congratulate the crew, lauding them for a "great job" done.

Zhai and fellow crew, Liu Boming and Jing Haipeng, were reported to be in fine shape after their 68-hour mission, and Zhai flashed a thumbs-up sign to the ground rescuers, according to state television, and stayed inside for a while to re-adapt to gravity.

State television showed a convoy of four-wheel vehicles speeding across the grassy plains towards the located capsule.

Three hundred search and rescue staff and six helicopters were mobilised for the landing and all five of China's satellite-tracking ships had been on standby in the Pacific and Atlantic oceans before Shenzhou VII took off.

Xinhua said the three astronauts will be quarantined for half a month.

"We can't see them during that period, but we can rest our hearts as long as they are on the earth," Zhai's wife, Zhang Shujing, was quoted as saying by Xinhua.

Zhai and fellow crew, Liu Boming and Jing Haipeng, add to the list of Chinese astronauts who flew on successful manned flights, going back to solo pioneer Yang Liwei in 2003 and pair of Fei Junlong and Nie Haisheng in 2005.

Yang, Fei and Nie all had asteroids named after them.

-- BERNAMA

Shenzhou VII Locks In For Return To Earth After Space Walk

BEIJING, Sept 28 (Bernama) - The Shenzhou VII space mission that pulled off China's first spacewalk has entered into the journey back to earth and can expect a euphoric welcome on Sunday evening.

The return capsule carrying astronaut Zhai Zhigang, who performed the historic feat, and two other astronauts will touch down at about 5.40pm in the steppes of central Inner Mongolia, the official Xinhua News Agency said.

Set to be the new poster space hero is Zhai whose image has dominated newspapers and repeatedly replayed on television waving China's red national flag in space after slipping out of the space capsule on Saturday evening.

The 42-year-old former fighter pilot, as with all Chinese astronauts, is the first generation of China's 14 space explorers picked in 1998 for the country's ambition to mark its presence in space and build its own space station by 2020.

Zhai and fellow crew, Liu Boming and Jing Haipeng blasted off in a Long March 2F rocket from the Jiuquan satellite launch centre in northwestern Gansu Province on Thursday.

President Hu Jintao met the astronauts before their trip at the launch centre and spoke to them again from the Beijing Aerospace Centre after their achievement.

"The successful extra vehicular activity symbolises China has achieved a new breakthrough on manned space missions. All three of you have made a great contribution to China's undertaking of space technology," he said.

Another triumph lauded has been the China-made "Feitian" (lying in the sky) spacesuit worn by Zhai, a 10-layer outfit costing 30 million yuan (RM13.7 million) and weighing 120kg suit.

Shenzhou VII was China's third manned space mission after Shenzhou V which took off with solo astronaut Yang Liwei, now a national hero, and the subsequent Shenzhou VI flight with two other astronauts in 2005.

China's next step is to start work by 2010 to put together a space laboratory and by 2020 to build its own space station.

The country's space march will demand more astronauts and a spokesman, Wang Zhaoyao, told newsmen after the spacewalk that research had begun on developing woman astronauts.

China's astronaut training chief engineer Deng Yibing said a second selection of astronauts will be held after the Shenzhou VII mission.

Xinhua quoted Deng as saying that a fresh team may be involved in the Shenzhou X mission, which will seek another breakthrough in orbiter docking technology.

Some of the present group of astronauts, with average age of 40, may already be too old by then.

The eighth and ninth Shenzhou (meaning "divine vessel" in Chinese) missions will be unmanned to test docking technology first, Xinhua quoted Li Yuqing, a consultant of the Shenzhou VII mission as saying.

-- BERNAMA

China's First Space Walk Set For Saturday

BEIJING, Sept 26 (Benama) -- China's first space walk attempt is set for Saturday to last 20 minutes and astronauts onboard the Shenzhou VII spacecraft have begun assembling the bulky spacesuits, a task that will take several hours.

Since the liftoff on Thursday night, the expedition has proceeded smoothly and the three astronauts have had their first meal and nap, mission spokesman Wang Zhaoyao told a news conference in Beijing.

Third manned flight took off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwestern Gansu province and has entered its destined orbit of 343km from earth."Our astronaut will stay in space for 20 minutes, that is our plan," he said.

The space walk, widely reported to be attempted by flight commander Zhai Zhigang, will be telecast 'live'.

Wang said the Extra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) is scheduled for 4.30pm Saturday subject to the conditions of the spacesuit and the astronaut.

During the EVA, he said it was important to ensure that communication between earth and space will not be disrupted.State media had reported that 42-year-old Zhai would don a 120kg China-made "Feitian" (fly to the sky) spacesuit with the assistance of fellow crew, Liu Boming, who will be standing by in a Russian developed "Haiying" (sea eagle) suit.

The third astronaut, Jing Haipeng, will be inside the re-entry module of the space craft which will make a return landing in Inner Mongolia on Sunday after a 68-hour voyage according to the schedule.

The success of the EVA is crucial to China's ambition of building its own space station in the next decade.

The chief designer of spacecraft who provided the name Shenzhou meaning "divine vessel", told the Xinhua News Agency on Friday that China would mass produce the model to shuttle astronauts to China's space station.

-- BERNAMA

Space experiment a commercial hit

PUTRAJAYA: An experiment in space by Malaysia's first astronaut is a success with findings being patented overseas.

The Protein Crystallisation in Space experiment, which saw the successful testing of the effects of microgravity on protein enzymes, has been termed a breakthrough in the field. The experiment by Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor on behalf of Universiti Putra Malaysia's Prof Dr Raja Noor Zaliha Raja Abd Rahman was aimed at comparing the crystallisation of proteins in space with those crystallised on Earth.

The proteins were found to be crystallising on a larger scale in space, making it more accurate for Raja Noor to study the structure of protein enzymes.

"When we know how it acts, we can use the protein fully to benefit the oleochemical, food supplement and pharmaceutical industries.

"By producing our own enzymes, we can sell them to generate income for the country or even improve the job market in the industries," Raja Noor Zaliha said after the opening of a workshop on microgravity sciences at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre here yesterday.

The patent has been filed here, in Europe, the United States and Japan, with the protein crystallisation technology already in use.

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili said the research component of the space programme would continue for the next five years and was likely to be included in the 10th Malaysia Plan. The cabinet will decide on the programme scale and funding.

Malaysians Of All Ages Participate In 51st Merdeka Celebration

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 31 (Bernama) -- The 51st Merdeka Day parade at the Dataran Merdeka here was not only participated by Malaysians of all races and religions but also included the various age groups.

The national-level celebration today included, for the first time, 150 pre-school pupils in the parade and mammoth procession comprising 16,433 participants including police pensioners.

With the theme 'Unity, the Thrust of Success', the parade began to assemble immediately upon the arrival of Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Nur Zahirah.

Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, together with his wife Datin Seri Jeanne Abdullah, arrived in a white Proton Pesona electric car driven by Abdullah himself.

His deputy, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor arrived in a red Proton Savvy driven by Najib.

The parade and procession began with the national anthem 'Negaraku' being played as a Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) helicopter flew past carrying the 'Jalur Gemilang' and the Malaysian Armed Forces' flag and emitting red, blue and yellow-coloured smoke, the colours of the Malaysian flag.

Tuanku Mizan then inspected the Guard of Honour mounted by four officers and 103 men from the First Royal Malay Regiment.

The ceremony then proceeded with the raising of the Jalur Gemilang as the national anthem 'Negaraku' was sung and the artillery fired 14 rounds.

This was later followed by the singing of patriotic songs 'Jalur Gemilang', 'Cemerlang, Gemilang, Terbilang', and the theme song for the celebration "Perpaduan Teras Kejayaan", sung by a 2,000-member choir group from the teaching colleges.

Seven secondary school students, representing the various ethnic groups in the country, led by Mohd Hafizul Akhmal Azeman, then read the "Rukunegara" which was followed by shouts of 'Merdeka' reverberating seven times.

The Dataran Merdeka then transformed into a sea of colours as 2,880 students staged a field performance carrying the theme 'Unity, the Thrust of Success' which included a drill formation and martial arts presentation, and aerobics, which were interspersed with human graphics performed by students of several schools in the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur.

The parade began with a procession carrying a mammoth Jalur Gemilang and the flags of the various states by trainees of the National Service Training Programme, including a contingent of 30 national figures from the various fields.

They included national astronaut Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor, national badminton coach Datuk Misbun Sidek, social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye and environmental activist Karam Singh Walia riding in national cars.

The almost two-hour event which ended at 10.10am was also witnessed by thousands of Malaysians who flocked to the Dataran Merdeka as early as 6.30am, as well as millions of others who watched the proceedings live over television.

Enzyme Tested In Space By Malaysian Astronaut Gets US Patent

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 2 (Bernama) -- The Geobacillus Zalihae enzyme derived from protein crystallisation that was tested in space by Malaysian astronaut Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor last year has received a patent in the United States.

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili said the rights for the patent for the enzyme, named after researcher Prof Raja Noor Zaliha Raja Abdul Rahman, were also filed in Malaysia, Europe and Japan.

"Four more items of research conducted in space on the same expedition, and involving cells and microbes, are in the final process of development and are expected to be completed by the first quarter of next year," Ongkili told reporters after launching a workshop on Microgravity Science here Tuesday.

The objective of the two-day workshop, which gathered 150 local and foreign participants, including 20 who presented research papers, was to study and discuss the experiments carried out by Dr Sheikh Muszaphar.

Meanwhile, Raja Noor Zaliha, of Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), said the enzyme could be used for industrial purposes like in the production of cleansers, pharmaceutical products and food supplements.

"This enzyme can generate income and, if we produce this enzyme, it can provide job opportunities to graduates majoring in biotechnology.

"We can also sell the technology to other countries as the market potential for the enzyme is really big," she said.

She said the research on protein carried out in space was important as bigger protein crystals could be formed there, twice the amount that could be produced on earth.

"A bigger crystal is needed to view the structure of protein, how it acts and how it can be utilised fully," she said.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar went into space in a Russian Soyuz TMA-11 spacecraft on Oct 10 last year, conducted the experiments in the International Space Station (ISS) and returned to earth in a Soyuz TMA-10 spacecraft on Oct 21.

-- BERNAMA

Angkasawan says space programme should concentrate on education

KUANTAN: The country’s space programme should focus on education and ensure sound basic knowledge in mathematics and science subjects at the earliest age possible, Angkasawan Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor said.

He added that there was more to the space programme than just sending people into space.

“It is about how to get the technology, acquiring the knowledge and fuelling the interest and imagination of the young.

“It is about moulding a strong grassroots who have a good grasp of mathematics and science,” he said after delivering a talk to students at Shahputra College here recently.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar agreed that the country should postpone any plans to send another Malaysian to space and, instead, concentrate on having a more objective plan that would define the nation’s direction to develop its space programme.

He urged the Government, especially the Education and Science, Technology and Innovation ministries, to play a bigger role including creating job opportunities for those with a background in aeronautical engineering.

“There are about 450 aeronautical engineers in the country but only 10% are working as aeronautical engineers. The rest are working in other lines,” he said.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar cited the Korean government as an example, saying that the country had sent an astronaut much later than Malaysia but already had a five-plan space programme.

“The pace is going very slowly for Malaysia. I get frustrated at times,” he said.

However, the 35-year-old orthopaedic surgeon would not be alone in his crusade to get the nation interested in space, science and mathematics as he planned to form an association with 59 other astronaut candidates who had vied to become the first Malaysian to be sent to space.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar said it would be called the Angkasawan Association of Malaysia and members would chip in to deliver talks and conduct activities that would motivate youngsters.

On the results of experiments carried out in space, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor said the findings were expected to be released early next month at a gathering that would attended by local and international scientists.

He described the findings as promising.

Earlier in his talks, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar said that if the Government wanted to send another astronaut to space, it should be something more challenging than what he had done.

“They could send a woman astronaut, do a space walk or stay for a longer duration,” he said.

When fielding questions from the audience, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar said there were two things he missed most when he was in space - a shower and the smell of nature.

The good-looking angkasawan added that he still had two dreams to fulfil - to be a pilot by 2013 and to work with children in Africa.

Starstruck with Angkasawan

DESPITE having microphones at the audience area, many female students preferred to share Angkasawan Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor’s microphone on stage.

Some were clearly nervous and starstruck with the country’s first astronaut when they posed their questions at the Q&A session after his talk attended by schools from all over the state at the Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) yesterday.

One after another, they asked him about his life in space. When a girl asked him why an astronaut must not have surgical scars or teeth filling, he answered that this was because surgical stitches may open up and teeth filling may fall off in space where there was zero gravity.

In his talk earlier, he said he had wanted to go to space since the age of 10 and his dream became a reality 25 years later.

“This is proof that dreams do come true if you just believe in yourself and work towards it. I was short listed from more than 11,000 hopefuls,” he said, adding that his next aim was to become a pilot by 2013.

He said for many years, he had felt a void in his soul, which he tried to fill by doing international charity work.
“I finally found my soul in space. I didn’t want to come back,” he said.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar also showed a slideshow followed by a video, which he took on board Russia’s Soyuz TMA-10 spacecraft.

The video included clips of him getting into his sleeping bag, performing his prayers, cleaning his teeth, shampooing his hair and spinning the gasing which only stopped moving after two days.

“It’s not only about physical strength, we need to be strong mentally as well,” he added.

He said when he was preparing for the trip to the International Space Station on Oct 10, last year, he got rid of his fear of heights by doing regular bungee jumping.

During the selection process, the candidates had to stay in Pulau Lumut for three days without food and sleep to test their endurance, he said.

Present were USM vice chancellor Tan Sri Dzulkifli Abdul Razak and Penang Port Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Ahmad Ibni Hajar.

Keeping cervical cancer in check

KUALA LUMPUR: A non-governmental organisation has been formed to reduce the high incidence of cervical cancer in Malaysia. Called Cervical Cancer Awareness Association (Cares) and located at Primanora Medical Centre, it will provide screening and raise awareness among women.

Cares ambassador and Malaysia's first angkasawan Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor said: "After doing cancer research through the angkasawan programme, my perspective about cancer has changed. That was one of the reasons I decided to support Cares' efforts."

Cervical cancer is the second leading cancer after breast cancer, with 2,000 to 3,000 cases detected yearly.

Medical adviser for Cares, Datuk Dr Nor Ashikin Mokhtar, said unlike other cancers, cervical cancer could be prevented.
As part of its programme, a public forum will be held on Aug 10 at Boulevard Hotel, Mid Valley Megamall.

Malaysia to share results of tests aboard International Space Station

KUANTAN:

Malaysia will share the results of the experiments done on board of the International Space Station (ISS) with local and international scientists on Sept 2.

Angkasawan Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor said the studies made on three types of cancer cells and protein crystalisation in zero gravity would be announced at a special session to be held at the Putra World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur.

"We have a very good and positive results which can help the scientists who are working in the respective areas," he said after a motivational talk at Shahputra College here yesterday.

He said the studies made on cancer cells would in a way help scientists to find cure for the disease.

"The results may not give an instant cure for cancer but will help us understand how the cells react in such a condition," he said.
Dr Sheikh Muszaphar also expressed his disatisfaction with the lack of direction in Malaysia's space programme.

It's now Datuk Muszaphar

KUALA PILAH: Malaysia's first astronaut Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor was conferred a Datukship here yesterday.

The 36-year-old was conferred the Darjah Dato Setia Negeri Sembilan which carries the title "Datuk" in conjunction with the 86th birthday of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar Negri Sembilan, Tuanku Ja'afar Tuanku Abdul Rahman.

"I accept the award with humility and gratitude. With this, I will forge closer ties with the state government to make a name for Negri Sembilan," said Sheikh Muszaphar after the investiture ceremony at Istana Besar Seri Menanti.

"I promise to do more for the people of Negri Sembilan. I am still the same person, and nothing excites me more than seeing the smiles on five-year-olds who aspire to be astronauts.

" He added that he had travelled to over 200 schools and universities in the country to give motivational talks.

Sheikh Muszaphar, who was accompanied by his fiancee, Dr Halina Yunos, was bestowed the title along with 18 others, including Genting Berhad strategic investments and corporate affairs head Justin Leong Ming Loong.

Three other recipients were State Secretary Datuk Norzam Mohd Nor, State Health, Science, Technology and Innovation Committee chairman Ismail Taib and State Tourism, Unity, Culture, Arts and Heritage Committee chairman Mohammad Razi Kail.

Badminton legend Ng Boon Bee, 70, who helped Malaysia win the Thomas Cup in 1967, received the Darjah Dato' Paduka Tuanku Ja'afar which carries the title "Datuk", along with 22 other recipients.

"I am very honoured and happy to be given this recognition. "This will be one of my best memories. "I thank the state government, especially Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, who has always recognised the contribution of the country's athletes."

Ng, from Padang Remis, Perak, said he hoped the recognition would motivate other sportsmen to continue to break records and excel in their respective sports.

Twenty others were awarded the Darjah Setia Negeri Sembilan (DNS), including Seremban police chief Assistant Commissioner Saiful Azly Kamaruddin, Kuala Pilah district officer Asis Ujang, Port Dickson district officer Johani Hassan and State Works Department director Dr Roslan Md Taha.

The Pingat Pekerti Terpilih (PPT), went to 19 recipients while the Jaksa Pendamai (JP) was awarded to 11 others.

Olympic Games

Catch Malaysian Athletes News in action, overall medal standing and highlights, daily updates at http://classxcess.blogspot.com/

Astronaut's Research Report To Go To Cabinet

SHAH ALAM, Aug 11 (Bernama) -- A report on the findings of the research and studies conducted by the country's first astronaut, Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor, at the International Space Station (ISS) will be presented to the Cabinet by the end of this month, said Science, Technology and Innovations Minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili.

He said the report needed to be studied by the Cabinet first before it was announced to the public and only then could the future of the country's astronaut programme be considered.

"The Cabinet will decide on all future programmes, big or small, and the ministry will make suggestions.

"With our current economic situation we need to focus on investment in sectors that yield faster and provide maximum income, and this will have an impact on programmes such as the astronaut programme," he told a press conference after the ministry's monthly assembly and 2008 Excellent Service Awards presentation, here Monday.

Ongkili said although the second astronaut programme had not yet been decided on, the ministry would still send Major Dr. Faiz Khaleed to undergo training to ensure continuity of Malaysia's space programme.

-- BERNAMA

Partial Lunar Eclipse On Aug 17

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 7 (Bernama) -- Astronomy enthusiasts in Malaysia will have the opportunity to witness a partial lunar eclipse on Aug 17.

According to the National Space Agency (Angkasa) in a statement here, people in the peninsular could see the eclipse from 2.25am to 6.44am while those in Sabah and Sarawak from 2.25am to 5.10am.

The phenomenon could also be seen live at Angkasa's website, www.angkasa.gov.my/planetarium.

In conjunction with the eclipse, Angkasa would host a special programme at the National Planetarium from Aug 12 to 17.

Among the activities were a drawing contest, quiz and lecture.

-- BERNAMA

MOSTI Allocates RM4 Billion For Science And Technology Research

KUCHING, July 31 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Science Technology and Innovations (MOSTI) has set aside a RM4 billion fund for research works in science and technology, involving food production, agriculture and bio-fuel industry, in the 9th Malaysian Plan (9MP).

Its Deputy Minister, Fadillah Yusof, however, said part of the fund was also allocated for research and development (R&D) as well as product commercialisation projects.

"The ministry provides various funds for science and technology research which will benefit those involved in R&D in the country," he told reporters after visiting and presenting donations to the Kampung Gita Laut fire victims here Thursday.

Fadillah said the funds were aimed at helping various parties including the public and private institutions of higher learning, as well as private researchers to conduct certain study and research, such as the one conducted by Crown Research Centre on 'bintangor' and sago trees in Sarawak.

Meanwhile, he said an exhibition on science, technology and innovations would be organised by MOSTI at the Kuching Waterfront, starting Friday.

The three-day exhibition to be held in conjunction with the Sarawak Regatta 2008, would feature the second national astronaut, Major Dr Faiz Khaled.

-- BERNAMA

Government To Reconsider Satellite Launch Pad At Kudat

NILAI, Aug 5 (Bernama) -- The government will reconsider the possibility of building a satellite launch pad in the country if it benefited the nation.

"The proposal to build one was made in the Eighth Malaysia Plan and identified Kudat in Sabah as the most appropriate location, " Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili told reporters after visiting Inno Biologics' bio-pharmaceutical complex at Bandar Baru Nilai here Tuesday.

Inno Bio is a subsidiary company of the Finance Ministry established specially to delve into the field of biotechnology.

Through its subsidiary, Inno Biologics Sdn Bhd, it offers gene-cloning using mammalian cells, development of bio-processes and bio-pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Ongkili said the proposal for the pad had been put on hold.

"We actually have the expertise with the cooperation of international bodies to build it given the vast extent of the South China Sea. That was the opinion of international experts.

"There is no allocation under the Ninth Malaysia Plan but I propose to bring it to the Cabinet," he said

On another matter, he said, the launch of the RazakSAT, the country's second microsatellite, scheduled for launch in September in the time slot provided by United States' Space Exploration Technology (SpaceX) has been postponed as the launch station has problems with the launch pad.

"With this new development, the RazakSAT launch is now delayed two years. I will informm the Cabinet. We are still negotiating with Astronautic Technology Sdn Bhd (ATSB) for a new date in the near future. If we cannot resolve the matter we will look for a new launch site," he said.

-- BERNAMA

Aim high, urges space pioneer

LIKE cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin who was the first human to travel into space and astronaut Neil Armstrong who was the first man to walk on the moon, angkasawan Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor wants to fuel the imagination of the nation.

Malaysia’s first angkasawan said his mission was not merely to travel into space but to come home and inspire the young generation.

“My mission is also to change the mindset of Malaysians – especially the young. I believe that one day, we can even launch our own rocket into space.

“I have wanted to be an angkasawan since I was 10 years old. Along the way, I have been a model, doctor and restaurant owner. It took me 25 years to fulfil my dreams but I did it.

“Do not be afraid to try new things. Because I believe in myself, I know that no matter which field I am in, I will succeed.

“Nothing is out of reach if you believe in yourself. Write down your dreams on posters and put it up in your room.

“Read it out loud every day and it will inspire you to strive towards success,” he said, adding that it was a fallacy to say that women were less capable than men.

“My Russian Soyuz 15-S mission crew members were Russian cosmonaut Yuri Malechencko and American Peggy Whitson. Peggy is the International Space Station (ISS) commander and she is very capable.

“In fact, I think women are mentally stronger than men,” he said during the closing of the Brain Awareness Week (BAW) 2008 at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Dewan Budaya recently.

He was delivering a talk on ‘Brain in Space: Our New Frontier’.

Sharing his space experience with more than 500 students from all over the country, he said he had always insisted on being called an angkasawan even when undergoing training in Russia.

“In Russia, they are called cosmonauts and in America, they are astronauts. I think as a Malaysian, the correct term is angkasawan. We must be proud of our culture and language.

“It was very difficult for me to learn the Russian language so everywhere I went, I would say ‘Ya La Blu Tibia’ (‘I love you’ in Russian) to everyone. They really appreciated me trying to learn their language,” he said, adding that it was not easy to become an angkasawan.

“I went through so many physical and mental tests. I even had to answer a 1,000-question personality evaluation that included questions like ‘Do you like to sleep with one or two pillows?’

“Everything I said and did was evaluated by a team of psychiatrists to make sure that I was mentally fit for the mission.

“I had always been afraid of heights. I went bungee jumping every now and then to get over my fear,” he said.

Among the questions asked were whether Dr Sheikh Muszaphar played football in space and how space has changed his perception of life.

“Unfortunately, I did not play football in space – I would have loved to though. I did however play the gasing in space and because there was no gravity, it spun for more than a day. I actually got tired of waiting for it to stop,” he said.

He added that the experience in space taught him to look at the “bigger picture”.

“Nowadays, I don’t care what is being said about me. I worry more about trying to make the world a better place,” he said.

Also present was USM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dzulkifli Abdul Razak.

Blind girl inspired by Angkasawan

ALL these years, partially blind student Alfa Nur Aini Erman Afandi, 17, thought that the blind could never aspire to be enjoy adventures in space as astronauts.

But after attending a motivational talk by Malaysia’s Angkasawan Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor, she realised that everything is possible, even for physically challenged people to go to space one day.
The St George’s Girls School Form Five student said Dr Sheikh Muszaphar had inspired the handicapped and now she was able to imagine being an astronaut in outer space.

“I can now imagine what it is like inside the International Space Station,'' she said.

Alfa Nur Aini said that after hearing the inspiring talk given by Dr Sheikh Muszaphar, she was now determined to do well in her forthcoming SPM examination.

“Who knows, one day I may be one of those going up into space,” she added.

Alfa Nur Aini was among those who attended the talk organised by St Nicholas Home in Penang.
Dr Sheikh Muszaphar spoke about his space mission and his feelings.

He said the handicapped should not regard their condition as an obstacle to achieving success.

“Being handicapped does not mean that you are not capable of achieving your dreams. The only thing you should remember is that physically challenged people just have to try harder than the rest,” he said.

He later visited the Home’s Wellness Centre, which provided training in massage therapy and reflexology to the visually impaired.

Astronaut talks about marriage

THE nation’s Angkasawan Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor was bombarded with questions about his work and personal life during a visit to SMK Seberang Jaya in Butterworth recently.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar met more than 100 students and talked about his experience onboard the International Space Station.

When one student asked why an Angkasawan couldn’t get married, he replied, “It is not that I have fertility problems but I have signed a two-year contract with the Government to remain single.

“But I do intend to get married in 2009,” he said to the laughing crowd.

When pressed further, he said he had been dating someone for five years.

Among the questions asked was how he went to the bathroom in outer space, whether he missed his family and his future plans after completing his space mission.

One student requested and re-ceived a hug from Dr Sheikh Mus-zaphar.

Form Four student Nurfitrah Rosman said she was excited to have the opportunity to meet Dr Sheikh Muszaphar.

“I have seen him on television. He is very inspiring with his spee-ches,” she said.

Prefect S. Visshnubathy, 15, said it was good for the students to hear all about the space mission from the nation’s Angkasawan.

Schoolteacher Hong Mee Tin said she was pleasantly surprised by Dr Sheikh Muszaphar’s humble and approachable nature.

“I have bought his late brother Sheikh Mustapha Shukor Al-Masrie’s book, Reaching for the Stars for my three-year-old son. My son is still too young to enjoy the book and I’m keeping it for him when he grows up,” she said.

Major role for Faiz

By TOMMY LEE

The Angkasawan, recently named NS programme icon, hopes to use his military and astronaut training to help trainees build confidence and understand the challenges they will be faced with not just at camp but also in life.

MORE confident, better communication skills, a more friendly and open outlook.
These are the qualities which Angkasawan Mejar Dr Faiz Khaleed hopes to see in National Service trainees when they complete their three-month stint in the various camps.

Mejar Dr Faiz, 28, who has been appointed icon for the National Service programme said such characteristics were very important when trainees move on to their working life or when they enter universities.

“It prepares them to be better individuals who can stand up among the crowd,” he said.

“I find the trainees very shy. When asked questions, they know the answers but are not confident to speak up. They are scared of people laughing at them.”

Mejar Dr Faiz said at the end of the day, he hoped that such weaknesses could be addressed. “It will be most satisfying to see the trainees acquire above average communication skills and to be brave enough to look into a person's eyes and introduce himself with confidence.

“Also I hope to see the trainees eventually picking up the qualities of a person who can rationalise things and make decisions which are mature,” he said.

“We want to nurture such optimistic Malaysians to be the bangsa Malaysia we can be proud of,” he said.

He added that one important aspect which must be spelt out clearly was human capital of high calibre.

“It is no point having the best skilled scientists or lawyers who lack character,” he pointed out.

“I also want to see the trainees overcoming their fears, such as fear of heights. They must ask themselves how far they can push themselves.”

On his role as the icon, Mejar Dr Faiz said he started joining trainees in the NS training last month.

“I hope to change the perception of these trainees towards the National Service training programme.

“This is where I come in to change their mindset. Although the programme also includes army-like modules, the focus is actually on character building – to instil leadership qualities, moulding them to be team players and inculcating in them other positive values,” he said.

He said in schools or universities, the trainees would not be exposed to such learning processes as it was heavily centred on academics.

“Once they understand the objective (of the NS training programme), they can go through the training process with an open mind and will benefit more from it,” he said.

Mejar Dr Faiz, who is a military dentist, was shortlisted along with orthopaedic surgeon Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor to be the first Malaysian in space.

On Oct 10 last year, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar made history by becoming the first Malaysian to fly to the International Space Station.

Both underwent training at the Gagarin Cosmonauts Training Centre in Star City near Moscow.
Drawing references from the military, he said, where soldiers were asked to carry out vigorous exercises, the focus in National Service was different because its objective was to test the mental stamina and ability of the trainees, not so much on the physical aspects.

Mejar Dr Faiz said he also intend to go to schools to give talks to clear any misconception about the programme.

“Some may even volunteer for the threemonth stint after getting a better understanding of the training programme,” he said.

On trainees facing difficulties adjusting to life in the camps, he said understanding every aspect of the training module was crucial.

“It's about being patient in facing pressure. Everyone has to assess their own capabilities, strengths and weaknesses. What you can do, I may not be able to do.

“Once you understand your strengths and weaknesses, you can overcome any obstacle,” he said.
Mejar Dr Faiz said he understands that not all could adapt to outdoor activities.

“Some are afraid of heights and dare not attempt the 'flying fox' activity. This is where we help them overcome their fears.

“We don't force them but instead let them assess and make their own decision,” he said.
They would be made to realise that if they did not overcome their fears, they would have to carry that burden with them for the rest of their lives.

“As a military man, I will be able to impart my training experience. My training in Russia for the Angkasawan programme will also be helpful in making them look at the bigger picture and understand the challenges in life,” he said.

To a question whether he is paid for his services, Mejar Dr Faiz said it was actually a “national service” on his part, too.

Faiz: Continue space programme

KUALA LUMPUR: The Angkasawan programme should continue, with the funding shared among the relevant ministries that will benefit from the aerospace industry, suggested Mejar Dr Faiz Khaleed.

The second Angkasawan said the space mission should no longer be about sending a Malaysian to space but for Malaysia to embark on the aerospace industry.

He said the industry that included manned space flight missions benefited many fields including communication, research, medical, defence and education.

“As the industry benefits many fields under many ministries, these ministries can share in the funding,” he said in response to Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili’s statement that the ministry presently had no money to embark on the second phase of the programme.

Dr Faiz said people must be clear that it was now about research and development.
“If you just want to send people to space, RM100mil is expensive. We must look at it as moving on to developing our aerospace industry.

“Developing research and development means investment,” he said, and pointed out countries, including China, which persisted with their space programme because of the far-reaching benefits.

On whether he was disappointed with the possibility that he would not get to go to space, he said: “I am always ready to serve the nation.

“If my service is needed I will always give my 200%. What I can do is to be prepared. I was given the chance to be in the industry for two years now and I learned a lot.”

Training for Faiz continues

BY SIM LEOI LEOI

PUTRAJAYA: Training for Angkasawan Mejar Dr Faiz Khaleed will go on despite the country’s space programme coming to a virtual halt.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said the Government was analysing the “cost benefit” of the first space mission and whether it should go on.

“If financial problems are an obstacle, we may have to think of other options. The space mission may be postponed but we want to continue with the training for the astronaut,” he told reporters after meeting 11 Indonesian parliamentarians at his office here yesterday.

Najib was commenting on reports that the country’s space programme looked to be “as good as grounded” after Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili revealed there was no money left for it.

In the first phase of the programme, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Sheikh Shukor and two other astronauts blasted into space in a Russian-built Soyuz 11 rocket from Baikonour in Kazakhstan on Oct 10 last year.

It was partly funded by the deal related to the purchase of Sukhoi SU30MKM fighter jets from the Russian Government.

On the statement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi that the fuel subsidy would be restructured into a fairer system to benefit medium and lower income groups, Najib said the move was necessary to take into account the “leakages”.

International Contributions For IIS

The international partners, Canada, Japan, the European Space Agency, and Russia, will contribute the following key elements to the International Space Station:

• Canada is providing a 55-foot-long robotic arm to be used for assembly and maintenance tasks on the Space Station.
• The European Space Agency is building a pressurized laboratory to be launched on the Space Shuttle and logistics transport vehicles to be launched on the Ariane 5 launch vehicle.
• Japan is building a laboratory with an attached exposed exterior platform for experiments as well as logistics transport vehicles.
• Russia is providing two research modules; an early living quarters called the Service Module with its own life support and habitation systems; a science power platform of solar arrays that can supply about 20 kilowatts of electrical power; logistics transport vehicles; and Soyuz spacecraft for crew return and transfer.
• In addition, Brazil and Italy are contributing some equipment to the station through agreements with the United States.

Source : ShuttlePressKit

The International Space Station

The International Space Station is the largest and most complex international scientific project in history. And when it is complete just after the turn of the century, the the station will represent a move of unprecedented scale off the home planet. Led by the United States, the International Space Station draws upon the scientific and technological resources of 16 nations: Canada, Japan, Russia, 11 nations of the European Space Agency and Brazil.

More than four times as large as the Russian Mir space station, the completed International Space Station will have a mass of about 1,040,000 pounds. It will measure 356 feet across and 290 feet long, with almost an acre of solar panels to provide electrical power to six state-of-the-art laboratories.

The station will be in an orbit with an altitude of 250 statute miles with an inclination of 51.6 degrees. This orbit allows the station to be reached by the launch vehicles of all the international partners to provide a robust capability for the delivery of crews and supplies. The orbit also provides excellent Earth observations with coverage of 85 percent of the globe and over flight of 95 percent of the population. By the end of this year, about 500,000 pounds of station components will be have been built at factories around the world.

U.S. Role and Contributions

The United States has the responsibility for developing and ultimately operating major elements and systems aboard the station. The U.S. elements include three connecting modules, or nodes; a laboratory module; truss segments; four solar arrays; a habitation module; three mating adapters; a cupola; an unpressurized logistics carrier and a centrifuge module. The various systems being developed by the U.S. include thermal control; life support; guidance, navigation and control; data handling; power systems; communications and tracking; ground operations facilities and launch-site processing facilities.

Source : ShuttlePressKit

ISS Science Highlight: STS-124/1J Every Day is Earth Day on the International Space Station

There may be only one place in the universe which can be the subject of 300,000 and counting photos and still never get old. It is the same place that astronauts spend hours upon hours of their free time watching, for months, yet still can't get enough. It's not a distant galaxy, or a spectacular nebula. It's simply home -- our planet Earth.

Of all the things astronauts speak of after their flights, the view of Earth remains their most consistent, indescribable, awe-inspiring constant.

Imagine looking out your window and seeing the planet pass below at 17,500 miles per hour every day, circling it each 90 minutes. That's the view for astronauts living and working on the International Space Station for six months at a time, orbiting 220 miles above the ground. Every day is Earth Day aboard the station.

The station provides an incomparable vantage point from which to observe, monitor and even discover Earth. A high quality optical window, located in the U.S. Laboratory, Destiny, was designed just for that purpose.

"Astronaut photographs of Earth are taken from the human perspective from space,” said Sue Runco, Earth remote sensing scientist at Johnson Space Center. “Just the fact of seeing Earth as another human sees it, is why people often can relate to them much greater than they can to satellite imagery."

Astronauts are trained in meteorology, geology, oceanography and environmental science in advance of their mission to maximize their observations of Earth. They use an array of professional digital cameras and lenses to capture the images, and, more recently, high-definition video.

A team of scientists on the ground helps the crews identify upcoming photo opportunities. The scientists send daily messages to the crew with specific times, locations and background on the areas of interest. Those areas can range from coral reefs to alpine glaciers to smog over industrial regions.

The unique documentation has become a valuable asset to researchers who use the data to help illustrate changes over time. By comparing photos from space of areas of interest, they can develop maps of land cover change, identify changes in Earth’s atmosphere and document changes in water levels, vegetation or even urban sprawl.

Their photos also serve as the “eyes of the world” – giving us never seen before images of hurricanes from above or squall lines as they develop. Unlike satellites, astronauts can actively search and identify new developments below them. During Expedition 13, Flight Engineer Jeff Williams was the first person to identify an erupting volcano of which even ground scientists were unaware.

"Astronaut photography of Earth has some unique aspects that aren't found in most satellite imagery,” said Runco. “There is a person behind the camera, and they use their judgment and training to pick the features they will photograph and the angle they will use.

Because of their orbit tracks and variable imaging times the lighting will be different which emphasizes different features. They operate in a mode of real-time discovery to see features of interest and document them in a way that is not possible with satellites.” Because it must rely on as few supplies as possible, the space station uses several very green principles in its daily operations. Water aboard the complex is recycled, not for drinking use, but to provide air for the complex. The water is split into hydrogen and oxygen. The oxygen is then used for breathing air while the hydrogen is vented overboard. All the electrical power on the station is generated by more than a half-acre of solar panels. Future systems may also even recycle the crew's exhaled breath -- combining the carbon dioxide scrubbed from the cabin atmosphere with hydrogen to create additional water.

Learning to use resources onboard the ISS for sustainable living is a smaller version of learning about the larger space platform, Earth, its resources, changes, and effects on sustainable living.

Source : NASA

Suhu

Soalan

Bagaimanakah keadaan suhu dan udara ketika berada dalam Stesen Angkasa Lepas Antarabangsa ISS. Saya juga ingin tahu waktu di sana?

Siti Nor Hasmah Ahmad Jani,

Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Seri Pantai, Kuala Lumpur.

Jawapan:

ISS sentiasa mengelilingi orbit pada ketinggian kira-kira 400 kilometer dari bumi. ISS didiami empat krew yang sentiasa menjalankan pelbagai aktiviti seperti eksperimen saintifik dan membina ISS yang dijangka siap pada 2009.

Suhu di ISS ditetapkan antara 22 hingga 26 darjah Celsius dan dikawal oleh pusat kawalan misi di Moscow dan Houston. Tekanan dan kandungan udara adalah sama seperti di bumi. Kandungan oksigen, karbon dioksida dan nitrogen dikawal dengan teliti oleh pakar bagi memastikan sesuai untuk krew.

Sistem amaran akan berbunyi jika ada perubahan dalam kandungan udara di ISS dan tindakan sewajar akan diambil untuk memastikan keselamatan krew di ISS.

Sementara itu, waktu di ISS adalah mengikut GMT (Masa Min Greenwich). Saya memakai tiga jam tangan di ISS bertujuan pertama, melihat waktu solat mengikut waktu Kazakhstan; kedua, waktu GMT untuk kerja seharian dan ketiga, waktu Malaysia sebagai panduan waktu negara tercinta.

Di ISS, siang dan malam berlaku setiap 45 minit. Oleh itu, jam tangan amat penting dalam meneruskan kehidupan harian di angkasa lepas.

Coretan Angkasawan: Pulang ke Russia setiap 3 bulan

Sheikh Muszaphar perlu selesaikan kajian saintifik, jadi eksperimen untuk lihat kesan tubuh manusia terdedah kepada radiasi dan mikro graviti

SAYA kembali semula ke Russia pada 19 Februari lalu. Bukan untuk meneruskan latihan, tetapi eksperimen saintifik yang masih belum selesai. Tubuh badan saya dijadikan bahan eksperimen oleh saintis Russia, Jepun dan Eropah untuk melihat kesan sampingan apabila tubuh manusia terdedah kepada radiasi dan mikro graviti di angkasa lepas.

Sejak awal lagi, saya bersetuju menjadikan diri sebagai bahan eksperimen demi kebaikan manusia sedunia. Setakat ini, saya tidak mengalami sebarang kesan sampingan. Tubuh saya sudah kembali normal.

Namun pemeriksaan terhadap tubuh ini akan diteruskan setiap tiga bulan selama setahun untuk memastikan segala-gala kembali normal. Bagaimanapun, kesempatan ke Russia membawa kembali pelbagai kenangan manis. Di negara inilah saya bertapa selama setahun untuk berlatih menjadi seorang angkasawan. Bahasa Russia masih segar di ingatan.

Saya tidak menghadapi masalah berkomunikasi dengan mereka. Seolah-olah seperti pulang ke kampung halaman. Saya tinggal di StarCity selama empat hari dan berkesempatan berjumpa kawan lama, cosmonaut termasuk tenaga pengajar Russia yang membimbing saya selama ini demi memastikan saya mencapai impian ke angkasa lepas. Mereka seperti keluarga sendiri.

Saya juga berjumpa krew yang kembali bersama, termasuk cosmonaut Korea Selatan yang akan ke angkasa lepas April ini. Ko San dan So-Yeon, dua rakan karib saya yang jelas menampakkan keghairahan menanti detik sebagai rakyat Korea Selatan pertama ke angkasa lepas.

Saya tersenyum kepada diri sendiri. Inilah perasaan yang saya alami sebelum ini. Saya menghabiskan masa selama empat jam bersama mereka menceritakan pengalaman dan menunjuk ajar mereka. Ini adalah talian persahabatan antara dua negara, Malaysia dan Korea Selatan.

Di StarCity, pelbagai ujian dijalankan termasuk pemeriksaan darah dan kepadatan tulang (bone density). Di angkasa lepas, pelbagai perubahan berlaku terhadap fisiologi tubuh termasuk kardiovaskular, otot dan tulang.

Manusia dicipta untuk hidup di bumi dan apabila manusia menjelajah angkasa lepas, pelbagai perubahan yang agak ekstrim berlaku. Dalam waktu yang singkat, iaitu pada hari ketiga di angkasa lepas, tulang manusia mula menampakkan kesan kerapuhan atau osteopenia. Bayangkan mereka yang tinggal di ISS selama enam bulan. Setakat ini, keputusan pemeriksaan terhadap tubuh saya kelihatan memuaskan. Tidak ada keputusan tidak normal. Syukur alhamdulillah. Ini semua adalah berkat doa rakyat Malaysia.

Apabila kembali ke Malaysia, suasana pilihan raya dapat dirasai. Setiap orang sibuk bercakap mengenai pilihan raya, baik di kedai kopi mahu pun pejabat.

Sejak awal lagi, saya berminat dalam bidang politik dan sering mengikuti perkembangan politik di tanah air walaupun berada di Russia. Namun belum terlintas untuk menceburi bidang politik secara aktif.

Orang sibuk berkempen mengenai pilihan raya, saya pula sibuk berkempen mengenai angkasa lepas. Kepuasan tidak terhingga pada diri ini tercapai apabila melihat senyuman pada anak kecil dan pelajar yang begitu bersemangat untuk menceburkan diri dalam bidang sains dan matematik.

Inilah matlamat dan tanggungjawab saya ketika ini. Tanggungjawab sepanjang hayat. Inilah janjiku untuk negara.

Permandangan dari angkasa

Soalan:

SEBAGAI pelajar sekolah menengah, saya ingin tahu mengenai beberapa perkara, iaitu adakah dari ISS, Dr dapat melihat galaksi di angkasa lepas seperti 'spiral galaxy', 'elliptical galaxy' dan `barred spiral galaxy'. Bagaimana pula cuaca sekitar ISS, adakah seperti bumi, ISS mendapat cahaya matahari?

Siti Aishah Anver,
Jelutong, Pulau Pinang.

Jawapan:

DI ISS kami dapat melihat bulan, bintang, bumi dan pelbagai pemandangan yang menakjubkan. Galaksi sungguh luas terbentang dan matahari naik dan turun setiap 45 minit. Saya tidak berapa pasti akan spiral galaksi atau elliptical galaksi yang dimaksudkan tetapi anda tidak dapat melihat akan galaksi itu kerana memerlukan peralatan teropong astronomi seperti yang ada di bumi.

Angkasawan tidak ada perasaan takut

Soalan:

APAKAH perasaan Dr ketika mendarat ke bumi. Gerun atau tiada perasaan takut sama sekali. Selain itu, apakah barang yang pertama sekali perlu diselamatkan ketika mendarat?

Siti Norsamsia Hassanudin,
Masai, Johor Bahru.

Jawapan:

KAMI diajar untuk tidak mempunyai sebarang perasaan takut. Apabila kembali ke bumi melalui ballistic reentry, fokus saya lebih kepada eksperimen yang berada dalam kapal soyuz kerana risau ia akan mengalami kerosakan. Saya sudah bekerjasama bersama saintis tempatan selama 2 tahun dan ketika itu sentiasa berdoa agar saintifik eksperimen itu tidak mengalami kerosakan.

Coretan Angkasawan: Panduan ibadah di ISS diiktiraf dunia Islam

Angkasawan negara bangga terbabit dalam usaha kembalikan keagungan Islam di mata dunia khususnya dalam sains dan astronomi.

PENJELAJAHAN angkasawan ke angkasa lepas bukan saja menarik minat rakyat Malaysia pada 10 Oktober 2007 malah membuka mata umat Islam di seluruh dunia. Walaupun saya adalah orang Islam yang ke-9 berada di angkasa lepas, amat penting bagi saya menekankan bahawa tanggungjawab sebagai umat Islam harus dilakukan tidak kira di mana kita berada sama ada di bumi atau angkasa lepas.

Persoalannya tiada siapa tahu bagaimana ibadah harus dilakukan sama ada berpuasa mahupun bersembahyang. Ini amat penting untuk menjadi panduan kepada bakal astronaut beragama Islam pada masa akan datang. Sekurang-kurangnya mereka boleh merujuk kepada panduan bagaimana ibadah dilakukan di Stesen Angkasa Lepas Antarabangsa (ISS).

Hakikatnya, Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (Jakim) bertemu dengan ulama seluruh dunia sebelum menghasilkan satu garis panduan mengenai tanggungjawab umat Islam di angkasa lepas. Saya berasa bangga kerana dapat menerajui tanggungjawab ini dengan harapan mengembalikan keagungan Islam di mata dunia khususnya dalam sains dan astronomi. Saya berharap dapat memainkan peranan dalam menyatupadukan umat Islam seluruh dunia untuk mencapai kejayaan lebih gemilang.

Saya telah mendapat jemputan untuk berkongsi pengalaman khususnya dari negara Islam seperti Arab Saudi, selain beberapa negara lain termasuk Amerika Syarikat, Kazakhstan, Britain dan banyak lagi .

Di Amerika Syarikat, saya dijemput oleh Islamic Syurah Council, California pada 8 hingga 12 Mai 2008. Tujuan utama adalah penerimaan anugerah keamanan dari pihak terbabit atas sumbangan Islam dalam bidang sains dan angkasa lepas. Ia adalah satu pengiktirafan yang amat bermakna pada diri ini. Ia membuat saya untuk terus berjuang demi memartabatkan nama Islam ke arah sains dan teknologi.

Di samping itu, saya juga berkesempatan berjumpa dengan komuniti Islam di California, memberi ceramah di masjid di San Jose dan San Diego untuk berkongsi pengalaman dengan harapan untuk menyuntik inspirasi kepada mereka. Saya juga berkesempatan untuk memberi ceramah di California State Universiti kepada 1,000 pelajar yang mengikuti bidang "Islam and its contribution and direction". Amat mengasyikkan apabila lebih separuh daripada pelajar adalah bukan beragama Islam. Ini jelas menunjukkan minda pelajar Amerika Syarikat yang begitu berminat untuk mengikuti perkembangan Islam dengan lebih mendalam. Paling menyeronokkan apabila berpeluang berjumpa dengan kanak-kanak Islam yang begitu bersemangat bertanyakan mengenai kehidupan di angkasa lepas. Ramai di antara mereka yang bercita-cita untuk pergi ke angkasa lepas dan saya juga diajukan pelbagai soalan menarik.

Berjumpa dengan 250 rakyat Malaysia di California adalah pengalaman yang manis di mana kebanyakan daripada mereka adalah pelajar tajaan yang masih meneruskan pengajian mereka di sana. Saya diberi makanan ala Malaysia seperti kari ikan hingga ayam masak kurma. Saya berasa seolah-olah saya berada di negara sendiri.

Saya juga dijemput oleh pihak NASA untuk melawat Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) di Pasadena di mana ia bertanggungjawab atas pelbagai satelit yang dilancarkan untuk mengetahui dengan lebih mendalam mengenai planet. Saya juga didedahkan dengan pembikinan rovers Phoenix yang baru-baru ini telah membuat pendaratan di planet Marikh untuk mengetahui adakah ada kehidupan di planet itu. Amat mengagumkan apabila dapat mempelajari pelbagai teknologi canggih terkini yang dihasilkan oleh NASA.

Secara keseluruhan komuniti Islam di Amerika Syarikat khususnya di California terdiri daripada golongan minoriti pelbagai negara dan kebanyakannya golongan profesional. Islamic Shura Council mewakili komuniti Islam di Amerika Syarikat dan menjalankan pelbagai aktiviti kebajikan dalam membentuk perpaduan di kalangan umat Islam dan saya berasa amat berbangga kerana dapat menyumbangkan tenaga dan ilmu dengan harapan dapat menyemai kepentingan Islam khususnya kepada anak-anak Islam di Amerika Syarikat. Inilah janji saya apabila kembali ke bumi. Tidak ramai di kalangan Islam yang membabitkan diri dalam bidang aeroangkasa. Impian saya untuk mengumpul kesemua sembilan astronaut Islam yang menjelajahi angkasa lepas dan menjelajahi seluruh benua dalam memupuk semangat dan menukar minda umat Islam agar mengembalikan kembali keagungan dan kegemilangan Islam khususnya dalam bidang sains dan teknologi. Banyak lagi usaha yang harus dilakukan untuk mencapai matlamat ini.

Selepas benua Amerika saya juga telah berada di Brunei selama 3 hari dan berkongsi pengalaman bersama pelajar di negara itu. Sungguh menyeronokkan apabila melihat semangat yang ditunjukkan oleh anak kecil yang mempunyai impian tinggi untuk menerokai angkasa lepas. Impian mampu menjadi kenyataan sekiranya seseorang itu berusaha dengan gigih dan yakin dengan kemampuan sendiri dan sentiasa bersikap positif.

Kini saya berada di Sarawak melawat Bandar Miri dan Kuching untuk memberi ceramah kepada lebih 5,000 penduduk Sarawak. Saya bekerjasama dengan pustaka negeri Sarawak dalam memupuk sikap membaca di kalangan pelajar. "Knowledge is power". Kita seharusnya membaca sekurang-kurangnya sebuah buku setiap minggu. Amat penting untuk Malaysia dalam melahirkan modal insan yang berilmu dan berkualiti dalam mengejar impian Wawasan 2020 untuk menjadikan Malaysia sebuah negara yang cemerlang, gemilang dan terbilang.