NASA Deputy Administrator Visits Japan, South Korea to Strengthen Space Ties

NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy has started a week-long visit to Japan and South Korea, aiming to reinforce the importance of international collaboration in space exploration and technological advancements.

Melroy will meet with government officials and leaders from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and the Korea AeroSpace Administration, NASA said.

Melroy, a past Potomac Officers Club event speaker and a Wash100 awardee, will join the Secure World Foundation’s 6th Summit for Space Sustainability in Tokyo to discuss NASA’s role in responsible and sustainable operations.

In Busan, the deputy administrator will speak at the 45th Scientific Assembly of the Committee on Space Research to highlight opportunities for international and commercial partnerships in space exploration.

Melroy’s visit coincides with the establishment of KASA and builds upon existing collaborations between South Korea and the United States on space science and aeronautics.

The initiative also comes after the announcement in April of a joint project between NASA and JAXA, wherein Japan will design, develop and operate a pressurized lunar rover in support of the Artemis mission.