Astronautical Association of Malaysia

Simulator Visit Videos from NTV7 kids@fgw

2012-01-04T02:26:00.000-08:00

Do enjoy the videos from our sim visit aired over NTV7 kids@fgw...

Part 1...

Part 2...

Part 3...

Click here to read an article reported by Sinar Harian on our visit...

Simulator Centre Visit

2011-12-01T07:03:00.000-08:00

18 students ranging from graduates to undergraduates, schoolchildren and special kids were given the opportunity to try their hands on the controls of the latest Boeing 737-800 full motion flight simulator at the MAS and CAE Flight and Simulator Centre in Glenmarie, Shah Alam. The main objective of the event was to let the kids experience what it feels like to pilot a jet aeroplane and hopefully inspire them to choose a career in the aerospace industry. The 2 hour session started off with a brief presentation by En. Shazmi Ali from CAE followed by a short tour of the facilities and the all important flight simulator session. The crew of NTV7 kids@fgw hosted by the ever bubbly Johan were also on site to report on the event. Certificates were given to all the lucky participants at the end of the day. All and all it was a great event and most importantly all the kids had fun and so did we. Until next time, happy holidays to all....

Briefing session

In the simulator

NTV7 host Johan

Certificates presentation

Group photo

Thank you CAE and MAS!!!

Dr Mazlan, The Woman Guiding UN's Outer Space Affairs

2011-11-12T05:03:00.000-08:00

NEW YORK, Nov 9 (Bernama) -- Meet Datuk Dr Mazlan Othman, the former director-general of the Malaysian National Space Agency (Angkasa), now based in Vienna, Austria, where she heads the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA).

As the director of UNOOSA she has been guiding the world body's outer-space programme and seems to have made a mark with her extensive knowledge of astrophysics.

Mazlan who frequently visits the United Nations' headquarters in New York for official work, holds a position that brings her in contact with the world's leading astrophysicists.

"Yes, there is a high level of responsibility involved in the kind of work I do. But it is also an exciting field which is challenging as well as replete with opportunities," she tells Bernama.

Some Westerners may find it uncommon to see an Asian woman head an outer-space body that is essentially perceived as a male domain. However, a glance at the petite incumbent's impressive credentials can easily convince even the hardened sceptic that this is a woman who commands respect in her field.

LEADING THE SPACE CHALLENGE

Mazlan who was first appointed to UNOOSA in 1999, returned to Malaysia in 2002 to helm Angkasa where she was intrumental in launching the first Malaysian astronout into space Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor in 2007.

She returned to her post as the director of the UNOOSA at the end of 2007 and ever since she has been dealing with issues like international cooperation in space, use of space-based remote sensing platforms for sustainable development, coordination of space law between nations and mitigating risks posed by near-earth asteroids.

Mazlan, a soft-spoken woman though, infuses the necessary leadership qualities in whatever she does, according to people who have had the opportunity to observe her at close range.

A TOUGH JOB

How does she find working for the UN with its challenges and demands that are incumbent on anyone holding a position of high visibility?

"The challenge of the UN is that it is a multilateral forum, addressing global issues. Consensus, therefore, needs to be built amongst many stakeholders with multifaceted backgrounds and expectations. There needs to be a balance between many parameters such as geography, developing and developed, and gender," she muses.

Prodded to explain her perception of life - not just vegetation but also living beings such as aliens - in outer space, Mazlan cautiously responds:

"Scientifically, we know that there are billions of galaxies containing trillions of stars, many of which will have planets.

"Hence, even if the probability of life is extremely small, given the larger number of stars, the probability is definitely non-zero. What we need to acknowledge is that 'life' can come in many forms and not just the form that we see here on earth."

Asked whether she was ever approached by scientists and other experts who seriously wanted to discuss with her life in outer space, she replies: "Yes, of course. There are experts who study astrobiology... in other words, life in outer space, and there are also experts who study planets, outside the solar system. All of the work has bearing on the issue."

SPACE, STILL NOT TAKEN SERIOUSLY

Speaking on specific challenges and opportunities of her present job, she reveals that space is still not taken into account in many aspects of the diplomatic negotiations and debates.

"My job is to bring the attention of the UN member states as well as the UN entities on the important role space can play in bringing benefits and the due consequences that may arise, if we do not pay attention to space issues," she says.

However, there are also opportunities. Because space is part of the discussions already taking place at the United Nations, the attention given to it can be further enhanced by expounding the idea that space is the common province of all mankind.

"And that space exploration is an important agenda of the United Nations and, therefore, international cooperation is vital," she says.

Mazlan has two grown-up children - her son, an aerospace engineer, is pursuing an MBA course in the United States while her 16 year-old daughter lives with her in Vienna.

By Manik Mehta

Taken from Bernama: http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v5/newsindex.php?id=625445

Dr. Harridon receives award during SUPAN-4

2011-10-19T06:27:00.000-07:00

During the SUPAN-4 (Sambutan Ulangtahun Program Angkasawan Negara) held at the National Planetarium on the 15th of October 2011, Dr. Harridon our Head of Rocketry Division received an award for UniKL's parabolic flight science experiment in collaboration with JAXA. It was indeed a momentous occasion and we are proud of his achievements. During the gala dinner, ANGKASA honoured several other individuals for excellence demonstrated in the field of aerospace through research papers published by them. Kudos to them all, and especially to our very own Dr. Harridon. We at AAM share your success and wish you the very best in all your future endeavours...

Some of our members at the dinner giving support

ISS Contact: National Space Challenge 2011

2011-10-03T09:43:00.001-07:00

As part of the annual National Space Challenge organised by the National Space Agency, radio contact with the International Space Station (ISS) was made tonight at 10:46pm. 19 students managed to interact with Japanese astronaut Satoshi Furukawa using ham radio with the assistance of Mr. Sangat Singh and Mr. Sion who were handling the radio equipment located at the National Planetarium, Kuala Lumpur. The students asked about microgravity conditions and life in space which was answered in detail by Furukawa during the short 10-minute window. After the event, I managed to address the students using a megaphone and got to find out how they were enjoying the programme and their keen interest in science and aerospace. All of the 26 participants of the space challenge were excited about their experience tonight. All and all it was a great event and kudos to the staff of the planetarium for running such an excellent session. More info on the National Space Challenge. Thank you...

Mr. Sion with the ham radio equipment at the satcom station

JAXA astronaut Satoshi Furukawa

With our mentor Mr. Sangat Singh

University applauds top graduates

2011-09-17T23:37:00.000-07:00

Published: Thursday, 15 September 2011

Advisor to the Malaysian National Security Council and local graduate, Dato’ Ir Dr Abu Bakar Bin Jaafar, has been awarded the University of Newcastle Alumni Convocation Medal for professional excellence. The award was one of eight Alumni Awards presented to graduates from across the world recognising their outstanding achievements.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nick Saunders, said the annual Alumni Awards were an opportunity for the whole city to celebrate the success of its graduates. “The 2011 awards demonstrate once again that Newcastle graduates are leading in their fields globally. It is always an honour to pay tribute to their achievements.”

University of Newcastle 2011 Alumni Award winners include:

• International Leadership – Peter Tay, President Singapore Food Industries Limited and Dr Andrew Mears, Principle Consultant, Majority World Technology Ltd
• National leadership – Denise Goldsworthy, Managing Director Rio Tinto and 2010 Telstra Business Woman of the Year
• Regional Leadership – Dr Anne Wakatama, General Manager Health Services the Royal Flying Doctor Service and Mohammed Faiz Kamaludin, Malaysian Airlines Captain and part of Malaysia’s Astronaut Program

Mohammed Faiz Kamaludin

• Newton John Award – Julie Squires, internationally recognised sculptor
• Exceptional Community Service – Associate Professor Pauline Chiarelli, Australia’s first Physiotherapist Continence Advisor
• Indigenous – Dr Sarah McEwan, rural general practitioner working in Indigenous health
• Young Alumni – Dr Nikola Bowden, University of Newcastle researcher into improved diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

President of Alumni, Brian Kennaugh, said each of the winners were an inspiration for students. “Each distinguished winner has had a major impact on the world and displayed the highest standard of professional excellence, creativity and innovation.”

Taken from: newcastle.edu.au website
More info on finalists

Space Talk at Merewether High School, Newcastle, Australia

2011-09-13T04:43:00.000-07:00

After 20 years I returned to Newcastle, Australia but this time it was to give a talk to students of Merewether High School. The event was organized in conjunction with the University of Newcastle's Awards Night to be held at the Newcastle City Hall tomorrow. Two other nominated finalists, Dr. Andrew Mears and Ryan Andriessen supported the event with their own presentation related to their respective careers. I had fun interacting with the students and it was important that we broadened their horizons on the possibilities of choosing their future career path. All and all it was a great event, strengthening the association's continued effort on our outreach programmes abroad.

(More info on awards night: Alumni Awards 2011)

With some of the students of Merewether High School
together with Ryan Andriessen (L) and Dr. Andrew Mears (C)

Angkasawan returns from GAZA

2011-08-27T18:04:00.000-07:00

Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor returned safely from Gaza 3 days ago on his second humanitarian mission there. According to him the situation this time was much worse compared to his first visit in January 2009. He said that there were bombings and gunshots everywhere and they had to evacuate after only spending 4 days in Gaza. One of the buildings that got bombed was located some 400 metres from the hotel where they stayed in. He stated that his mission this time was to spearhead the building of a paediatric hospital and maternity ward, which requires RM30 million. He is now trying to raise funds for the said hospital project.

With the Palestinian Prime Minister after the Terawih prayers

MOU signing with the Minister of Health
and contribution of USD60,000 during the visit

With the children of Gaza

Scene of devastation in a mosque in Gaza

Angkasawan on humanitarian mission to GAZA

2011-08-15T05:49:00.000-07:00

Dato' Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor left Kuala Lumpur this evening heading towards Gaza on a humanitarian mission. His last visit to Gaza was in 2009, whereby he conducted surgery on war victims there. His mission this time will take approximately 10 days leaving behind his 3 weeks old baby daughter 'Bella' and wife Dr. Halina. We pray for his safe return and wish him every success in Gaza. God bless...

Buka Puasa at KGNS

2011-08-14T03:29:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at the buka puasa event held last Friday on the 12th of August 2011, at the Golfers Terrace in Kelab Golf Negara Subang. The Ramadhan buffet had a nice spread with the usual nasi minyak, satay, rojak, ice kacang and other mouth watering goodies. Hope to see you guys at the next one in Rebung soon. Wishing everyone "Selamat Berbuka Puasa" in this great month of Ramadhan...

UniKL’s Microgravity Experiment Selected for Parabolic Flight

2011-07-18T07:18:00.000-07:00

The Malaysian Space Agency and Japanese Space Agency had chosen the microgravity experiment of Universiti Kuala Lumpur for a parabolic flight at Japan. 13 universities from Malaysia, public and private universities, competed in the selection process and two universities were chosen to present their experiments. Universiti Kuala Lumpur was one of the two universities that were chosen. A parabolic flight is a flight where microgravity condition exists during a predetermined period of the flight. Microgravity experiments are actuated during the microgravity condition. Universiti Kuala Lumpur’s microgravity experiment is titled “Rate of Transfer of Moisture from Bath Towel to Human Skin During 1G and Microgravity Conditions – Hygienic Purposes”. In this simple and novel experiment, the team from Universiti Kuala Lumpur would measure the rate of transfer of liquid from bath towel to the astronaut’s skin. Astronauts use bath towel in space as showering is not feasible and this experiment would eventually help the production of a more efficient bath towel.

This applied research from Universiti Kuala Lumpur had captured the attention of the Malaysian Space Agency and Japanese Space Agency and this had enhanced Universiti Kuala Lumpur’s reputation as the premier institute in applied research and engineering. The team consisting of advisor Dr. Mohd Harridon Mohamed Suffian and 2 students Muhamad Zaim Ismail and Muhammad Zaim Mahd Nor would actuate the experiment in a GulfStream Jet own by the Japanese Space Agency.

Space Talk at Beaconhouse Sri Inai

2011-06-29T05:52:00.000-07:00

On the 29th of June 2011, I gave a talk to 400 primary school children on my experience with the astronaut programme and later spoke to a classroom of children as part of their ‘Dreams do come true’ programme.

All together now!!!

Taking questions

See you next time!!!

Perhimpunan Sejuta Belia Putrajaya 2011

2011-05-30T17:57:00.000-07:00

It was a great event and we were glad to be a part of it. Do enjoy the pics, hope to see everyone there again next year!!!

Himpunan Sejuta Belia Putrajaya 2011

2011-05-21T00:50:00.000-07:00

Visit our booth next weekend in PUTRAJAYA from the 27th to 29th of May 2011 . Hope to see you all there...

Bernam River Fly-in Postponed

2011-05-17T19:32:00.000-07:00

The Bernam River Fly-in scheduled for 5th June 2011 has been postponed to the end of September 2011 due to some severe flooding at the airfield over the last few weeks. Please be informed accordingly and we apologize for any inconvenience caused.

Thanks,
Faiz

Mount Kinabalu Climb via Ferrata 9-10th May 2011

2011-05-11T08:41:00.000-07:00

We organised a trip to Sabah recently to climb up Mount Kinabalu and down via the highest ferrata route in the world. The objective was to inject some fun amongst the members and to proudly fly our association's flag at the highest peak in South East Asia. The expedition was successful and we had a great time doing it together with several other climbers from Kuching, KL and also from other countries such as New Zealand and Finland to name a few. We hope to inspire others to climb this great mountain and to experience the thrill and challenges of performing the ferrata. We are very sure you will enjoy it as much as we did. To Shafini and Hozay, a million thanks for the great company throughout. Enjoy the pics...

The starting point at Timpohon Gate

On the summit trail

Mount Kinabalu view from Laban Rata

We did it!!!
Low's peak at 4095.2 metres, flying our flag in cold and windy conditions

Hozay proudly showing our flag...

On our way down looking up at the traffic of people climbing up

Getting ready for our ferrata experience

Shafini with the other group of climbers all set for the ferrata

Hozay leading our group and already looking like a pro...

Ok that's me having a blast!!!

Hozay above the clouds

Me too...

As well as Shafini...

Our final leg of the journey leaving Laban Rata

The all important certificates...

See you next time...

Catch Praba in Penang this Wednesday 13th April 2011: Sambutan Hari Astronomi Pulau Pinang 2011

2011-04-11T03:07:00.000-07:00

Catch Prabaharan Nadarajan in Penang this Wednesday, 13th April 2011 at Dewan Dome Komtar for "Sambutan Malam Astronomi Pulau Pinang 2011". He will deliver a talk at 2:30pm on behalf of the association about the Angkasawan selection process. Hope to see you all there!!!

KARNIVAL KARANGKRAF 2011

2011-01-28T11:27:00.000-08:00

Karnival Karangkraf 2011 happening this weekend from 28-30th Jan from 9am-7pm at the Karangkraf Office (Lot 2, Jalan Sepana 15/3,off Pesiaran Selangor, Seksyen 15 Shah Alam).

Get a copy of our book 'Aspirasi Angkasawan' at a super discounted price of RM18.10. Hurry only for this weekend...

Hope to see everyone there...

Our book 'Aspirasi Angkasawan' is No.7 on MPH Best sellers list for week ending 24th October 2010

2010-10-29T07:39:00.000-07:00

MPH Non-fiction best sellers list (local) for week ending 24th October 2010:
1. Bila Allah Menduga Kita Author : Syed Alwi Alatas
2. Di Mana Dia Di Hatiku? Author : Pahrol Mohd Juoi
3. Jadi 'Cool + Positif: Psikologi Suka-Suka (Kompilasi Ruangan Psikologi Majalah Remaja)
4. Indahnya Amalan Doa Author : Dato Ismail Kamus
5. Location, Timing & Branding Author : Ho Chin Soon
6. Rojak: Bite-Sized Stories Author : Amir Muhammad
7. Aspirasi Angkasawan: Catatan Pengalaman calon Angkasawan Negara Author : Persatuan Astronautik Malaysia; Mohammed Faiz Kamaludin
8. Hadiah Cinta Untuk Ilahi Author : Muhammad Rashidi Hj Wahab
9. What Your Teacher Didn't Tell You: The Annexe Lectures (Vol. 1) Author : Farish A. Noor
10. Get Into Gold: How to Invest in Gold Profitably While Avoiding the Traps Author : Azizi Ali

Get a copy of our book today at MPH bookstores nationwide...
Thank you for all your support!!!

Inspiring the young to know more about space

2010-10-08T04:09:00.000-07:00

KUCHING: The younger generation needs more exposure to the field of space exploration so that they could understand the subject better, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) vice-chancellor Prof Dr Khairuddin Hamid said yesterday.

SHARING: Owen (left) relating his experience to the crowd. Also seen are Mario (second right) and Richard.

He said although there was a booming interest in the field since Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor became the country’s first astronaut in 2007, he was concerned the enthusiasm might fade once the hype was over.

As such, he called for continuous programmes on the subject so that the younger generation would be inspired to learn more about the field and its benefits to mankind.

He believed that through such efforts, the country could one day be the regional centre for space exploration and achieve greater progress in science and technological area.

“I really hope that with the exposure to science, technologies and the future of space travel, we can increase the interest among Malaysians.

“With advanced and modern science and technological expertise here in Malaysia, it is not impossible to promote our country as a possible hub for research and education on space technologies,” he said when speaking during the ‘Campus Space Walk’ talk at Unimas near here.

Three astronauts from the United States, father and son Owen Garriot and Richard Garriot, and Mario Runco Jr were invited for the talk held in connection with the XXIII Planetary Congress of Association of Space Explorers (ASE).

The talk was attended by students of Unimas and selected schools.

Owen, who went to Skylab in 1973 and Spacelab-1 in 1983, was the first of six scientist astronauts selected by Nasa, and he operated the world’s first amateur radio station from space.

Richard on the other hand was not qualified to become an astronaut, according to Nasa, but paid US$30 million and became the sixth space tourist.

A video game developer and entrepreneur, Richard took part in several education outreach programmes during his time at the SOYUZ TMA-13 in October 2008 and operated an amateur radio operator from the International Space Station (ISS).

Mario, who went to STS-44 Atlantis in 1991, STS-54 Endeavour 1003 and STS-77 Endeavour in May 1996 spent most of his space journey attending numerous experiments such as earth observation experiments, radiation monitoring experiments and life sciences experiments in support of long duration space flights.

The ASE congress in Kuala Lumpur was the first to be held in Malaysia and the second after Japan.

ASE, which was formed in 1985, has 350 members and it aims at providing a forum for dialogue and to promote education on space science and technology.

by Saiful Bahari. Posted on October 8, 2010, Friday

Taken from http://www.theborneopost.com/?p=67346

Malaysia On Right Track In Developing Aerospace Sector

2010-10-07T11:20:00.001-07:00

MELAKA, Oct 8 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is on the right track in developing the aerospace sector by organising various programmes, hence placing itself at par with other developing countries which have the same mission.

Former astronaut from Russia, Alexander Ivanchenkov, 60, regards the cooperation between the Malaysian and Russian governments in sending Malaysia's first astronaut Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor into space in October 2007 as apt in developing the field.

"Malaysia needs more such cooperation where it can encourage transfer of technology in aerospace to the country," he said through an interpreter after delivering a talk on space exploration at Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM), here, Thursday.

Also present was another Russian foremer astronaut Alexander Poleshchuk, 57, and former astronaut from the United States, Henry Hartsfield, 77.

They are in Malaysia with over 60 other astronauts and cosmonauts from 17 countries for the XXIII International Association of Space Explorers Planetary Congress themed "1Planet, 1Hope, 1Future", from Oct 5 to 10 in Kuala Lumpur.

Ivanchenkov who went into space for the first time on July 15, 1975, hoped Malaysia's aerospace sector development would be a continuous one by cultivating interest in aerospace among its young generation.

Meanwhile, Hartsfield said the development of the aerospace sector was not only limited to the technical aspects, but the development of human capital too, especially involving the young generation.

"The future of aerospace is in the hands of young people. They must master science and technology in order to carry on this effort (developing the sector), besides having a high level of discipline," he said.

Hartsfield who first went into space in June 1982, has been involved in many development programmes by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa) since 1969.

The Malaysian Multimedia University in Bukit Beruang here also held a similar programme attended by over 1,000 university and school students who listened to talks given by six foreign astronauts.

Taken from BERNAMA

Pictures taken at Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia, one of the 11 participating universities during the Campus Space Walk community programme...

The crowd in UPNM

NASA Astronaut Richard Richards

I have a question...

Photo with the kids

23rd ASE Planetary Congress officially launched in KL

2010-10-05T02:14:00.000-07:00

The 23rd Planetary Congress for the Association of Space Explorers (ASE) was successfully launched in Istana Hotel, Kuala Lumpur this morning. Dato' Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor, Malaysia's first angkasawan is playing host to this year's congress with the theme of One Planet, One Hope, One Future. The event was kicked off by the Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Higher Education, Dato' Saifuddin Abdullah followed by the first technical session on human exploration titled perspectives of language and culture chaired by astronaut Gerhard Thiele. The congress serves as a forum for astronaut members to interact professionally and develop ASE programmes, importantly motivational talks that will be carried out in 11 universities throughout Malaysia this Thursday 7th of October 2010. The event is a first of it's kind in South East Asia whereby 61 participating astronauts from 17 countries are gathering to encourage international cooperation and essentially promote education in space science and engineering.

Children with flags from participating nations

Go for Launch!!!

ASE members

Campus Space Walk: Association of Space Explorers XXIII Planetary Congress Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 2010

2010-10-02T00:11:00.000-07:00

A group of astronauts will conduct presentations for students in selected educational institutions nationwide in conjunction with the 23rd Planetary Congress for the Association of Space Explorers. The sessions will begin from 10am to 1230pm respectively in each campus.

Participating universities:

National University of Malaysia (UKM)
Astronauts: Dato' Sheikh Muszaphar (Malaysia), Alexei Leonov (Russia), Yang Liwei (China), Sultan Al Saud (Saudi Arabia), Soyeon Yi (Korea)

Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM)
Astronauts: Leroy Chiao (USA), Fei Junlong (China), Richard Richards (USA), Rusty Schweickart (USA), Chiaki Mukai (Japan), Yuri Baturin (Russia)

Politeknik Ungku Omar Perak (PUO)
Astronauts: John Fabian (USA), Aleksandar Aleksandrov (Bulgaria), Franz Viehbock (Austria), Pam Melroy (USA)

Nilai University College (NILAI UC)
Astronauts: Klaus-Dietrich Flade (Germany), Vladimir-Lyakhov (Russian), Don Williams (USA), Miroslaw Hermaszewski (Poland), Sergei Treschev (USA)

University of Technical Malaysia Melaka (UTeM)
Astronauts: Hank Hartsfield (USA), Alexander Poleshchuk (Russia), Ulrich Walter (Germany), Alexander Ivanchenkov (Russia), Alexander Lazutkin (Russia)

Multimedia University Malacca (MMU)
Astronauts: Elena Kondakova (Russia), Jon McBride (USA), Valeri Ryumin (Russia), Charlie Walker (USA), Jim Voss (USA), Karol "Bo" Bobko (USA)

Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM)
Astronauts: Chris Heidfield (Canada), Claude Nicollier (Switzerland), Anousheh Ansari (USA)

University of Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP)
Astronauts: Soichi Noguchi (Japan), Dirk Frimout (Belgium), Bonnie Dunbar (USA), Bertalan Farkas (Hungary)

Universiti Darul Iman Malaysia (UNISZA)
Astronauts: Toyohiro Akiyama (Japan), Anatoli Berezovoi (Russia), Patrick Baudry (France), Yuri Gidzenko (Russia)

Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK)
Astronauts: John Phillips (USA), Pavel Vinogradov (Russia), Gerhard Thiele (Germany), Sergei Avdeev (Russia), Oleg Kotov (Russia)

Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS)
Astronauts: Richard Garriott (USA), Owen Garriott (USA), Mario Runco (USA)

Hope to see you all there...

Astrophysicist to be named UN’s alien ambassador

2010-09-27T19:01:00.000-07:00

Pretty soon the answer will be a Malaysian astrophysicist named Mazlan Othman, who's expected to be appointed as the United Nation’s space ambassador for extraterrestrial contact affairs. That gives her the right to make the first official response to any travelling aliens.

Othman was Malaysia’s first astrophysicist, became the head of the country’s national planetarium (Negara) and launched the first Malaysian astronaut, Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor, to the International Space Station in October 2007.

Now, Othman is the director of the UN’s Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA); a branch of the General Assembly, established in 1962. The office is responsible for promoting international co-operation and peace in dealing with outer space, and includes topics such as satellite navigation and space debris.

If approved, her latest role would place her as the go-to contact in the event of aliens making contact with earth. She’s got to pitch her new job title at a scientific conference at the Royal Society’s Kavli conference centre in Buckinghamshire next week, then if the idea is backed by the UN scientific advisory committees, it’ll be passed to General Assembly.

Othman recently gave a talk to fellow scientists, where she said that the continued search sustains the hope that “some day humankind will receive signals from extraterrestrials. When we do, we should have in place a coordinated response that takes into account all the sensitivities related to the subject”.

Stephen Hawking suggested earlier this year that aliens almost certainly exist, but cautioned humanity against making contact. He warned that extraterrestrial nomads could be “looking to conquer and colonise whatever planets they can reach.”

By Mark Brown |27 September 2010

Taken from: http://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2010-09/27/alien-ambassador

Aerospace Club members take turns at the controls

2010-09-14T01:25:00.000-07:00

NOAH Aiman Mohd Faiz, 10, and Jonathan Ang Kwang Siong, 10, were captaining a Boeing 737-400 confidently, sending the aircraft soaring into the sky.

Suddenly, the clear, blue sky turned into complete darkness. Before they could react, soft lights illuminated the horizon and dawn had arrived.

The kids did not panic. They kept their hands on the yoke while the aircraft flew steadily onward.

Smooth landing: Capt Mohd Radzi giving some advice to the children when they were on the simulator.

Behind them, Malaysia Airlines (MAS) flight operations manager Captain Mohd Radzi Mohamad Alias was choosing the scenes from a touch screen.

There were also buttons to customise the weather conditions. When the turbulence setting was activated, everyone in the cockpit felt the instability.

Noah and Jonathan were in a flight simulator with equipment identical to that of the original aircraft at MAS Flight Crew Training Centre in Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, Subang.

Organised by Astronautical Association of Malaysia and Aerospace Education Services, the visit gave about 10 kids and teenagers a unique flying experience right in the centre that produces pilots for the national carrier.

They were given a briefing before they toured the building to visit the computer-based training centre and a number of other simulators.

Hands-on: Mohammed Faiz (right) helping Suhaimi Abdul Rahman to put on an oxygen mask.

When Mohd Radzi put on his epaulettes, jacket and hat, the kids looked at him with great admiration.

The three-hour experience fuelled Fariz Izlan Feizal‘s dream of becoming a pilot one day.

“I have wanted to be a pilot since I was six,” the 15-year-old said.

Ahmad Helmi Abu Kassim, 23, a student from Universiti Kuala Lumpur’s Malaysian Institute of Aviation Technology (MIAT), saluted MAS Captain Mohammed Faiz Kamaludin animatedly after his attempt in the simulator.

“It is difficult for us on the aircraft engineering side, and today, I realised that it is just as hard for the pilots to steer an aircraft, especially to perform a landing,” he said.

Mohammed Faiz, who was one of the final four candidates to be Malaysia’s astronaut in 2006, said the Astronautical Association of Malaysia was founded last year, comprising of the former top 59 astronaut candidates.

It involves in talks and programmes to promote aerospace and science to the younger generation.

“Aerospace Education, on the other hand, organises space camps, astronomy nights, classes on aerospace and so on.

“The kids who are here today are its Aerospace Club members,” he said.

From the Star Online by Tho Xin Yi

Malaysia Airlines Flight Simulator Centre Visit

2010-09-06T06:47:00.000-07:00

Today, the association together with 10 schoolchildren and a few engineering students made a visit to the Malaysia Airlines Flight Simulator Centre in Subang. After an informative briefing by Capt. Mohd Radzi, we were given the chance to fly a full-motion Boeing 737-400 simulator. The aspiring pilots took turns at the flight controls and found out that it wasn't really easy to land a jet aircraft..hehe! Nonetheless everyone had fun and we truly enjoyed ourselves. We were also given a tour of the state of the art CBT (computer based training) centre and other simulators within the complex such as the F50, A330, B777, B747 and the latest Airbus 380. In the end, we had a great day and would like to thank Malaysia Airlines for letting us visit their Flight Simulator Centre.

Capt. Mohd Radzi giving us a briefing

Can't wait for our turn to fly...

Ok ..what do I do now???

Thank you MAS!!!!

Career Talk @ Kolej Matrikulasi Selangor, Banting, 7th August 2010

2010-08-08T06:54:00.000-07:00

From Left: Haizam, Harridon, Shafini, Norisham and Yusfi

Promoting 'Aspirasi Angkasawan' on MHI TV3

2010-07-11T19:03:00.000-07:00

Our Book 'Aspirasi Angkasawan' Launched

2010-07-06T06:26:00.000-07:00

Our book 'Aspirasi Angkasawan' was officially launched today in conjunction with PM's visit to the Karangkraf HQ in Shah Alam. It will be available in all major book stores such as MPH and Popular or you can purchase it on-line at eBay.com.my. Search categories for Books > Non-English Books or just type in 'Aspirasi Angkasawan'. For a limited time only we are offering free postage via 'pos ekspres' to anywhere within Malaysia...so grab a copy today!!!

Successful Soft Launch of 'Aspirasi Angkasawan' Book

2010-06-25T08:32:00.000-07:00

We had a successful soft launch of our book 'Aspirasi Angkasawan' today at the Kompleks PKNS, Shah Alam with a simple ceremony. Our books are available at a special 20% discount during the Pesta Buku Selangor 2010 until the 5th of July 2010. So come down to the BukuPrima booth and get your copy today. Our official launch by Dato' Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor will be held on the 6th of July 2010. We would like to thank everyone that came by today to witness our event. Do enjoy the pics...

Giving my speech

On stage with the publisher and association members

Ok cut it gently now...

Signings for schoolchildren

On stage with family members

Soft Launch of our book 'Aspirasi Angkasawan' 25th June 2010

2010-06-18T07:36:00.000-07:00

In conjunction with the 'Pesta Buku Selangor 2010' we will be having a soft launch of our book 'Aspirasi Angkasawan' from 4 to 6pm next Friday 25th of June 2010 at the foyer of Kompleks PKNS, Shah Alam. So come one, come all to our book launch and purchase it at a super discounted price. Our authors/members will be there to personally sign copies of your book. Hope to see everyone there...

Aerospace Adventure Workshops & Bernam River Fly-in

2010-06-15T01:48:00.000-07:00

I recently gave a talk to the pupils of SJKC Sungai Buloh, Selangor to promote our aerospace adventure workshops catered for schoolchildren. The first workshop was successfully conducted last Friday on the 11th of June 2010 followed by our involvement with the Bernam River Fly-in which was held at the Bernam River Airfield the following day on the 12th of June 2010. It was a great double event for us and do look out for our next event, which is the launch of our book 'Aspirasi Angkasawan'. Until then enjoy some pictures of the Bernam River Fly-in.

Dune buggy rides for kids

Water rocket launches by Sam

The Pitts Special going off for some aerobatics

Some inverted action

A low fly-pass

The Pitts Special produced some great aerobatics

Cessna Caravan

Heli landing

With Hozay

Sam was the MC too

Flagging off the air race

Pleasure flights with the Cessna

Aerial view of Bernam River Airfield

Some of the vintage cars on display

The crowd at Bernam River Airfield

Bernam River Fly-in (Saturday 12th June 2010)

2010-06-09T22:55:00.000-07:00

Aerobatic Display's, Hot Air Balloon, Air Race, Flying Competitions, Paramotors, Radio Controlled Models, Clasic Cars, Rally Demo, Astonomy, Swimming, Fishing, Dune Buggies, Pleasure Flights, F&B.. what more could you ask for? Don't foget This Saturday Gates Open 9am!

Check out the website and register at www.bernamriver.com

08:30 - 17:30 Airfield open for Arrivals
09:30 - 19:00 Dune Buggy Rides
09:30 - 09:45 Aerobatic Display
09:30 - 11:30 Pleasure Flights
11:00 - 11:30 Pilot Briefing for Air Race
11:30 - 11:45 Aerobatic Display
12:00 - 13:00 Air Race Departures
13:00 - 14:00 Pleasure Flights
14:00 - 15:00 Air Race Arrivals
14:00 - 16:30 Daytime Astronomy
14:30 - 17:00 Flour Bombing and Pleasure Flights
17:00 - 17:15 Aerobatic Display
17:30 - 19:00 Paragliders
17:30 - 19:00 Vintage Car Racing
19:00 - 21:30 Hot Air Balloon
19:00 - 22:00 Runway Party
21:00 - 01:00 Night time Astronomy

And just like that...It blasted off into space!!!

2010-05-15T01:00:00.000-07:00

This morning the sky was clear and temperature perfectly nice and warm. Let's just say something felt right about today when a huge Kennedy Space Center (KSC) bus arrived in our hotel. The journey took a while before entering KSC in Cape Canaveral and we proceeded towards our final destination the OSB II Building just opposite the Vehicle Assembly Building painted with a huge NASA logo and an American flag.

Inside OSB II

Dr. Sheikh with Jose Hernandez

Vehicle Assembly Building in the background

The crowd assembled at the conference room for a launch presentation. There was excitement in the air when everybody adjourned to the viewing deck just outside located on the 5th floor of the building. The who's who of space explorers were there from the legendary Buzz Aldrin to Sergei Krikalev the world famous cosmonaut. In addition, Marcos Pontes the Brazilian astronaut, Jose Hernandez the Mexican astronaut and not forgetting our very own Angkasawan Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar and many other astronauts were present.

Buzz Aldrin

Sergei Krikalev

With Marcos Pontes

Guess who???

There was a buzz in the air as people waited for the final launch of shuttle Atlantis. The countdown began and everyone shouted along 10, 9, 8... when in a distance we could see smoke coming out of the main engines. The ground was rumbling and the space shuttle took off producing a flash of light so bright, it blinded me for a second as I quickly grabbed my sunglasses to cut the blazing glare. I tracked Atlantis mid air, this time roaring through the sky with a deafening noise leaving behind a huge plume of smoke. I was in awe just watching it climb further into the atmosphere and just like that...it was gone, blasting off into space. Oh what a rush, catching it live right before my eyes!!! Jubilation filled the air and everyone clapped and congratulated each other. Replays of the launch was played over and over again on all the video screens in OSB II, recapturing the historic moment.

Inside, corn bread and beans were served as a tradition following a successful launch and indeed it was. I wished everyone was here with me to witness it. It was reported that more than 300,000 people jammed the launch area (double of the usual amount) to experience the thrill of watching a space shuttle launch as there remains only 2 launches left. Do enjoy this video and until next time 'Reach for the skies!!!'...Faiz

Beans anyone?

Space shuttle Atlantis gears up for final launch

2010-05-14T02:41:00.000-07:00

The space shuttle Atlantis blasts off Friday on the last mission of its 25-year career, taking astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) one last time before becoming a museum piece. The 32nd and final voyage for Atlantis, which first launched in 1985, will take six astronauts to the orbiting space research facility, delivering an integrated cargo carrier and a Russian-built mini research module. Lift-off is scheduled for 2:20pm (Malaysia 2:20am) from Kennedy Space Center near Cape Canaveral in Florida, weather-permitting.

By Jean-Louis Santini
From space-travel.com

Finally in Florida

2010-05-13T21:01:00.000-07:00

We finally arrived in Orlando, Florida this evening and made our way down to the town of Melbourne (very near Kennedy Space Center) before retiring in for the night. We're looking forward to an eventful day tomorrow, which will look something like this:

11:15am
Arrive OSB II (KSC)

12:00 noon
Administrator’s Briefing

Master of Ceremonies
Miguel Rodriguez, Deputy Director, Engineering Directorate
National Anthem
Suzy Cunningham, Advanced Planning Office
Welcome
Robert Cabana, Director Kennedy Space Center
Remarks
Anatoly Perminov, Chief Russian Federal Space Agency
Remarks
Garver, NASA Deputy Administrator
Presentation
Astronaut Scott Altman

2:28 pm
LAUNCH of Space Shuttle Atlantis STS-132

Traditional Cornbread & Bean Successful Launch Celebration

We're praying for some good weather and a successful launch...Faiz

Welcome to the land of iPads

2010-05-13T04:33:00.000-07:00

After 18 hours of flight via Taipei we finally arrived into USA the land of the iPads. We've got 12 hours before our next connection to Orlando, Florida so what do we do... we headed down to the nearest mac store to get our hands on these wonderful machines.

Dr. Sheikh getting his hands on the iPad

Let me just personally say that they're great!!! Unfortunately for us the iPads are pretty much sold out everywhere...Ah well better luck in Florida. We're excited about the coming Shuttle launch and very glad to be in Los Angeles for the time being. Good night until next time... Faiz

STS-132 Launch on Friday 14th May 2010

2010-05-11T07:52:00.000-07:00

Follow our blog updates, as we will be leaving for Florida tomorrow to witness the final launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis scheduled for Friday 14th May 2010 2:20pm EDT (Malaysia: Saturday 15th May 2010 2:20am)...

100 astronauts to gather at confab

2010-04-25T07:42:00.000-07:00

April 23, 2010, Friday

KUCHING: Come October, 100 astronauts from 35 unified nations will gather in the country to participate in a conference.“The conference is organised by the Association of Space Explorers (ASE),” Malaysia’s astronaut Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor told reporters at the Malaysian Unit Trust Week 2010 (MSAM 2010) ‘Ikon Inspirasi’ here yesterday.

He pointed out that the 100 astronauts will be meeting over 200,000 school students throughout the country within one day.

“The astronauts will be going around the country including Sarawak and Sabah, and I hope we would be able to meet about 200,000 Malaysian school students,” he said. Meanwhile, Muszaphar was asked on his toughest challenge in being an astronaut.

“Mental strength is my toughest challenge. How do I deal with it? Well, whenever I’m faced with a tough challenge, I would close my eyes and imagine the hopes the country puts in me. They are the catalyst of my success,” he revealed.

When asked his ambition in life apart from being an astronaut, Muszaphar said he wanted to become an aircraft pilot and work with charitable bodies for African children.

“My first ambition would be realised around 2013 because at the moment I am still committed to motivating students,” he said.

From BorneoPost Online

Space shuttle Discovery, 7 astronauts blast off

2010-04-05T08:07:00.000-07:00

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Discovery and seven astronauts rocketed into orbit Monday (Apr 5, 7:26 am ET) on one of NASA's final stockpiling missions to the International Space Station, its takeoff flames bringing an early dawn to the coast with this last scheduled shuttle launch in darkness.

Soyuz TMA-18 launched

2010-04-04T18:02:00.000-07:00

A Russian-built Soyuz TMA-18 rocket launches from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on Friday, April 2, 2010 carrying three Expedition 23 crew members to the International Space Station. Credit: NASA/Carla Cioffi

'Journey to Space' Launched

2010-03-08T17:10:00.000-08:00

The highly anticipated book titled 'Journey to Space' by our Angkasawan was launched last Thursday on the 4th of March 2010. The book contains his incredible journey from childhood to becoming Malaysia's first citizen in space. The association members were present to show our support at the event which was held at the Istana Hotel. Kudos Dr. Sheikh for the launch of your book and we wish you every bit of success...

Our table

Interview session

Getting the book signed

Dr. Sheikh with the association members

AAM Meeting 7th Feb 2010

2010-02-11T07:13:00.001-08:00

The venue of the Rocketry Workshop scheduled for the 28th of February 2010, has now been changed to the CREATE Building (Opposite Sapura Smart School) No.1, Persiaran A, Off Jalan Lapangan Terbang Subang, Selangor, Malaysia. To confirm your place kindly transfer RM159 to maybank savings acc no. 114123509733 Mohammed Faiz by the 23rd of February and send an sms to 012-2877799 to inform of the transfer. Below is the schedule:

1000-1030 Rocketry Basic and Fuel
1030-1200 Developing Solid Fuel
1200-1300 Lunch
1300-1400 Rocket Software Development
1400-1530 Rocket Ignition and Thrust Measuring
1530-1550 Talk by Captain Faiz Kamaludin
1550-1600 Certificate Ceremony

Map to CREATE, Subang

Hope to see you all there. Thanks...

Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar visits Sapura Smart School

2010-01-24T03:19:00.000-08:00

Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor made a trip to the Sapura Smart School (formerly known as APIIT Smart school) in Subang last Monday, the 18th of January 2010. He gave a presentation on his journey to space and also made a visit to the CREATE building home to Aerospace Education Services which supports the growth and development of aerospace awareness among schoolchildren and students. It was a delight for the kids to personally meet up with our Angkasawan up close and personal. They all had a great time and we hope to inspire our future generation!!!

Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar with the smart kids and Mr. Sam Gibbs (far left)

Rocketry Workshop 28th Feb 2010

2010-01-14T09:46:00.001-08:00

The Astronautical Association of Malaysia (AAM) is organizing a one day workshop on Rocketry Science. The workshop aims to promote Rocketry Science among students aged 9 to 14 (Adults are welcomed). The workshop would be held on the 28th of February 2010 at AAM’s headquarters in Bangsar where it would be restricted to only 20 students. Fee is RM159 per person and register by calling/sms Faiz 012-2877799 or Harridon 013-3064054 or e-mail mfaiz@angkasawan.org.my or mdharridon@miat.unikl.edu.my.

Astronomy Night 13th Feb 2010

2010-01-14T09:29:00.001-08:00

Here's your chance to learn more about astronomy. Join us at the CREATE Building from 8-12pm on the 13th February 2010. There will be presentations, film documentaries and stargazing activities. Young and old are invited. Admission is free...

Meeting 8th Jan 2010

2010-01-10T09:57:00.000-08:00

Stay tuned for our upcoming events...

Calendar Events 2010

Feb 13th Astronomy Night (CREATE-Free Admission)

Feb 20th-21st Rocketry Camp (TBC)

Feb 28th Rocketry Workshop (Rebung)

Mar 13th-15th Space Camp (CREATE & Bernam River Airfield)

Apr 1st-11th CERN Trip (France)

Apr 17th Astronomy Night (CREATE-Free Admission)

Apr 25th Rocketry Workshop (Rebung)

Jun 11th-13th STAR Party (Bernam River Airfield)

Jun 27th Rocketry Workshop (Rebung)

Jul 11th-20th NASA Trip (USA)

Sep 4th-6th Space Camp (CREATE & Bernam River Airfield)

Nov 22nd-26th Rocket Week (TBC)

Rocketry Workshop & Space Camp

2009-12-29T06:01:00.000-08:00

The Rocketry Workshop and Space Camp were successfully conducted during the school holidays. The workshop was held in Rebung, Bangsar while the space camp was in Bernam River Airfield about 100kms north of Kuala Lumpur. In the end, as long as the kids had fun and learned new stuff our objectives were achieved. Rocket science and astronomy are new subjects for them and I'm glad we are helping them develop their interest in them. Until next time, Happy New Year 2010 and enjoy the pics....

Learning to mix the solid fuel

Harridon showing off the 'ingredients'

Bernam River Airfield

Preparing lunch after our swim

Setting up our equipment in the field

Kids enjoying sports

Software all set up and ready

Enjoying the sunset on the runway

Lets have a race first!!!

Sam in the distance

What is a camp without a campfire?

Group photo after our stargazing session

Ready for an aeroplane ride?

The kids getting a go!!! Wee!!!

Main Building of the Bernam River Airfeld
See you next time!!!

ONE DAY WORKSHOP ON ROCKETRY SCIENCE

2009-12-10T01:55:00.000-08:00

Venue
Restoran Rebung Chef Ismail,
No. 4-2, Lorong Maarof,
Bangsar Park,
59000 Kuala Lumpur.

Synopsis
The Astronautical Association of
Malaysia (AAM) is organizing a one day
workshop on Rocketry Science. The
workshop aims to promote Rocketry Science
among students aged 9 till 12. The workshop
is divided into 3 sessions. In the first session
the students would learn to produce Solid
Fuel which would fuel the rocket.

For the second session, the students are
taught on how to develop a software to
measure the thrust of the rocket.
Finally in the third session, the students
would ignite the rocket and measure the
thrust produced by the rocket.

Tentative Schedule
The workshop would be held on the 29th of
December 2009 at AAM’s headquarters in
Bangsar where it would be restricted to only
20 students. Fee is RM199 per person and
register by calling 012-2877799 or e-mail
faiz2000a@yahoo.com

9.30am-10.30am Rocketry Basic & Fuel
10.30am-12pm Developing Solid Fuel
12pm-1pm Lunch
1pm-2.30pm Rocket Software Development
2.30pm-4pm Rocket Ignition & Thrust Measuring
4pm-4.45pm Talk by Captain M. Faiz Kamaludin
4.45pm-5pm Certificate Ceremony

Lecturer’s Profiles
Captain M. Faiz Kamaludin is a Commercial
Pilot for a major airline. Currently flying the
Boeing 777, he is a highly qualified aviator
and had been invited to give talks to
numerous organizations. He holds a
Commercial Pilot License and would receive
his Masters Degree in 2010. Captain Faiz is
also inducted in the Malaysian Astronaut
Corps.

Inr. Mohd Harridon is an Aerospace
Engineer specializing in Rocketry Science.
He holds a Master Degree in Aerospace
Engineering and would receive his PhD in
January 2010. He is also inducted in the
Malaysian Astronaut Corps.

Angkasawan Programme Opened Up A Host Of Opportunities, Says Ongkili

2009-11-23T07:10:00.000-08:00

KOTA KINABALU, Nov 23 (Bernama) -- Malaysia's Angkasawan (Space) programme opened up opportunities between Malaysia and international space agencies to conduct microgravity science experiments in the country, said Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili.

He said two agencies offered to share their expertise with Malaysia, namely the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and Federal Space Agency of Russia (ROSCOSMOS).

"In the Angkasawan programme in 2007, two experiments on the crystallization of proteins were successful, resulting in patent and trademark applications.

"Following this success, we are now collaborating with the Japanese on utilisation of high quality growth experiments," he told reporters when met at the Second Workshop on Microgravity Sciences here Monday.

According to Ongkili, the collaboration would span over three years an entailed sending 24 enzymes and proteins to be crystallized in space.

On the collaboration with ROSCOSMOS, Ongkili said Malaysian scientists would be able to conduct microgravity experiments in space using the Bio-Satellite Programme under the Institute of Bio-Medical Problems (IBMP) of Russia.

He also urged the National Space Agency (Angkasa) and the National Biotechnology Division (Biotek) to undertake microgravity research as an important development programme under the Ninth Malaysia Plan, which would then be tied-up with Malaysia's second Angkasawan programme in the next five years.

"But the second mission has to be significantly different from the first one in terms of bringing direct benefits to the country's economy," he added.

-- BERNAMA

Second Mission

2009-11-16T23:18:00.000-08:00

AS Malaysia’s first astronaut, Angkasawan Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Al-Masrie Shukor has become a national hero, as well as a poster boy of sorts for the National Space Agency (Angkasa), under the auspices of the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (Mosti). His dashing good looks and charming personality have endeared him to the public, and generated much interest in the country’s efforts towards becoming one of the elite group of countries to have made it to space.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar, however, is not simply a talking head for Malaysia’s space programme. While very supportive of the endeavour, he is quite vocal when pointing out what he perceives as its flaws.

What disappoints him is a lack of follow-through after his return from his mission to the International Space Station (ISS).

“I believe Mosti should do more for the space programme. It’s not just about training astronauts; there also needs to be efforts to unite aerospace engineers, who are mostly working in other industries now,” he says.

“Mosti should also have a vision, a blueprint. Look at South Korea, they went up after me (Korean Yi So-yeon was sent to the ISS in April 2008), but they already have a second phase programme.”

While declining to comment on Dr Sheikh Muszaphar’s statements, Angkasa’s director-general Dr Mustafa Din Subari shared in a phone interview that a second space mission is already in the planning stages, to be implemented within the next five years.

Currently in talks with the Russians and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa), Angkasa is planning to send Mejar Dr Faiz Khaleed, who served as Dr Sheikh Muszaphar’s back-up in the first mission, to the ISS.

“The first mission was very significant because it was the first opportunity to send a Malaysian into space. That in itself put Malaysia on the map. (We think) that the second mission should be even more significant, by making it a longer stay, and emphasising much more on scientific experiments,” explains Dr Mustafa, adding that they are targeting a four to six-month stay aboard the ISS for Dr Faiz.

While Dr Sheikh Muszaphar’s mission was funded by the government-to-government offset agreement with Russia, Dr Mustafa says the next trip into space will be financed by the Malaysian government.

He further says that the results of the five experiments Dr Sheikh Muszaphar carried out in space will be disclosed later this month at a workshop being held in Kota Kinabalu.

“We have been reaching out to several schools a week since the space mission, with the aim of creating awareness (on the programme). We also launched a coffee-table book last month that details the first mission (from beginning to end),” he says.

Greater awareness

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar, however, does not believe Malaysia is ready to send another astronaut into space in the near future.

“Not only is it extremely expensive, about US$30mil (RM101mil) for 12 days, but Mosti must have an objective for the mission. They should study exactly what they want to do (on this mission),” he says. “However, I do hope the next mission, when it happens, is better than mine.”

Having parted ways with Mosti to rejoin Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, where he has previously both studied and lectured, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar is not part of the ministry’s recently started Malaysia Astronaut Foundation.

Instead, he says he is forming an independent association with the 51 other candidates who were shortlisted for the Angkasawan programme. The association will work on educating and creating awareness on science and space exploration.

“I get frustrated when things are not moving along (with the space programme),” admits Dr Sheikh Muszaphar. “I believe whoever conquers space will conquer the world.”

by Sharmilla Ganesan

The Star Online

16th November 2009

Sharing Space

2009-11-16T23:09:00.000-08:00

Malaysia’s Angkasawan may be settling down, but that won’t diminish his passion for space travel.

TWO years after he became the first Malaysian to be sent into space, Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Al-Masrie Shukor is set to embark on an adventure of a different kind.

Engaged to Dr Halina Mohd Yunos, his sweetheart of eight years, the Angkasawan will tie the knot next year – and he is looking forward to family life.

Lovebirds: Angkasawan Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Al-Masrie Shukor and his fiancee

Dr Halina Mohd Yunos will finally tie the knot next year. – SAMUEL ONG/The Star

“I think it’s about time I settled down,” he shares during an interview at his recently-launched clinic in Starhill Gallery, Kuala Lumpur. “I’m going to be 38 next year, and I’ve always been a family man.”

Dr Halina, 28, laughs when asked if she’s glad they are finally getting hitched. “It’s always been part of the plan, he (Dr Sheikh Muszaphar) just had many other things to do first. He’s very focused and ambitious, and that makes me very proud,” she says.

When asked how she first met Dr Sheikh Muszaphar, Dr Halina, who is from Kluang, Johor, reveals it was when she was a medical student at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and he was her lecturer.

“It’s a little embarrassing, really!” she laughs. “You’re not supposed to have these so-called ‘sparks’ with your teacher!”

As for what it’s like to be with Malaysia’s first astronaut, she cheekily says she’s heard all his stories a thousand times. “But being in space is an amazing thing, and not everyone has the chance to experience it. Being close to him is probably the next best thing for me!”

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar at his clinic in Starhill Gallery, Kuala Lumpur.

Don’t expect marriage to slow Dr Sheikh Muszaphar down, however. “There will be no such thing as taking a break,” he stresses. “There is a lot of work to be done, and getting married isn’t going to change my passion for my work.”

Out of this world

Launched to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard Soyuz TMA-11 on Oct 10, 2007, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar spent 12 days in space, fulfilling a dream he had held since the age of 10.

“It still feels like yesterday that I was (out in space); even now, I still dream about it,” he says. “The experience was out of this world, literally speaking!”

It definitely wasn’t a bed of roses, however. As part of his training in Russia, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar had to endure temperatures as low as -45°C in Siberia, sit in a spinning chair for 25 minutes every day, and prepare for microgravity environments by floating in the Black Sea for three days. And that was just the initial part of his adventure!

In the space station itself, where being in microgravity caused him to float, even the simplest daily task was a challenge.

“It’s a completely different environment, and you have to re-learn how to do all the simple things you take for granted,” he says. “For example, your taste buds change. Although the food we had was regular food that was freeze-dried and vacuum-packed, (sometimes) what you like on Earth will not be the same in space. I love mashed potatoes, but I did not like the taste of it up there at all.”

As for drinking fluids, it all has to be done through a straw, as liquids separate into little globules that can damage equipment if they are left floating around.

Even going to bed was a tricky exercise, as the astronauts slept floating, while tied to a sleeping bag. Dr Sheikh Muszaphar recalls how he forgot to tie himself one night, and woke up floating freely around the cabin.

Showers were a luxury he had to do without, as water was very limited. “We used wet wipes to clean ourselves, and when we shampoo our hair, we just wipe out the suds instead of rinsing,” he explains. “And when you brush your teeth, you swallow instead of spitting out.”

Of course, the worst was probably having to answer nature’s call. Dr Sheikh Muszaphar describes how one has to make sure he is fixed in a stable position, and then use a funnel with vacuum suction to “go” in. The bodily wastes are then ejected into the atmosphere, where they burn and disintegrate. “I hated going to the toilet in space, it was very uncomfortable!” he laughs.

The discomforts did not end after the stay at ISS. Upon returning to Earth, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar had to be quarantined, and poked and prodded by a team of doctors.

“Your body goes through many changes in space; your muscles become atrophied, and your bones become brittle. When I first got back, I couldn’t walk, I couldn’t even lift my hand! We had to go through many, many tests, especially for radiation exposure,” he says, adding that one day in space exposes a person to radiation equivalent to five chest X-rays.

“But if you ask me if I’d go through all of it again, I’d definitely say yes. This is my passion, and I’d do anything to go into space!” says the cosmonaut, whose book on his time in space, My Journey Into Space, will be released next month.

The future beckons

Since returning, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar has thrown himself into creating more awareness about space travel, and science in general. Over the past two years, he has been travelling around the country giving talks on his experiences, particularly in schools.

“The euphoria among the students (about my expedition) is still there. They all want to become astronauts!” he says. “What I tell them is that the chances of becoming an astronaut are not very big, as only very few are lucky enough to be selected. Instead, I encourage them to take up science, to become doctors, scientists, aerospace engineers.”

Having parted ways with the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry earlier this year, the doctor has been revisiting his beginnings.

Besides his new clinic, which offers free treatment to several orphanages in Kuala Lumpur, he has also rejoined Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, where he did his master’s in Orthopaedic Surgery. He is currently involved with the university’s Institute of Space Science, where he is hoping to prepare teaching modules that can be taught to students next year.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar is also in the midst of forming a scholarship programme with the Allianze College of Medical Sciences, due to kick off next year, to sponsor 200 students in the study of science. For younger enthusiasts, he is hoping to kick off a space museum that holds regular space camps.

He has big plans involving other astronauts from around the world as well, starting by bringing 100 of them to Malaysia next year.

“My plan is to send them all over the country to talk to students, to catalyse a deep interest in science,” he says.

Furthering his interest in Islam and space travel, he also hopes to form an Islamic space agency, uniting the eight other Muslim astronauts from countries like Iran, Syria and Kazakhstan.

All this seems like quite a lot for someone who will soon be juggling his work demands and a wife. But Dr Sheikh Muszaphar isn’t fazed in the slightest.

“Many people come back from space feeling different; some become very spiritual, and some even get depressed. Me, I’ve gained an appreciation of our time on Earth. We need to look at the big picture and live life to the fullest,” he says.

by Sharmilla Ganesan
The Star Online
16th November 2009

Taklimat Angkasa oleh Vanajah di Lawas, Sarawak

2009-11-11T01:29:00.000-08:00

Vanajah di atas pentas

Simposium "Public Understanding of Science and Technology (PUSAT) 2009" Lawas, Sarawak.
24hb & 25hb Oktober 2009: Persatuan Ahli-ahli Sains Malaysia telah menganjurkan PUSAT 2009 di Lawas, Sarawak. Dari segi geografi, Lawas terputus dari sistem jalanraya negeri Sarawak. Ia bersambung dengan Kota Kinablau, Sabah melalui jalan dalaman yang mengambil masa lebih kurang 3 jam dengan menaiki kereta (110 km jaraknya).

SMK Merapok, Lawas

Vanajah telah menyampaikan taklimatnya di SMK Merapok, Lawas. Para hadirin terdiri daripada murid-murid sekolah menengah, guru-guru sekolah dan pegawai kerajaan. Beliau menyampaikan taklimat mengenai proses pemilihan program Angkasawan Negara. Para hadirin teruja mendengar pengalaman Vanajah sepanjang program itu terutama sekali apabila beliau menjalani saringan di Rusia. Ia merupakan suatu pencapaian yang menakjubkan oleh seorang wanita untuk berjaya menjadi antara empat calon terbaik program Angkawasan Negara. Taklimat beliau telah memberi inspirasi kepada genarasi muda yang hadir sekaligus berjaya memupuk semangat jati diri mereka.

Para hadirin

Vanajah menceritakan pengalaman beliau

Seorang ikon Malaysia...

Space talk by Vanajah in Lawas, Sarawak

2009-11-10T06:20:00.000-08:00

Vanajah on stage

Symposium on "Public Understanding of Science & Technology (PUSAT) 2009" in Lawas, Sarawak

24th & 25th October 2009: The Malaysian Scientific Association (MSA) organized this year's PUSAT in Lawas, Sarawak. Lawas, by virtue of its geographical location, is cut off from the rest of Sarawak's road network. It is however linked by a trunk road to Sabah, which takes approximately 3 hours from Kota Kinabalu (110 kms).

SMK Merapok, Lawas

Vanajah's talk was held at the SMK Merapok, Lawas. The audience consists of secondary school students, schoolteachers, educators and government personnel. She gave a presentation about the selection process of the Angkaswan programme. The students and audience were thrilled to hear about her experience throughout the programme especially on her spaceflight medical evaluation in Russia. Indeed it was an amazing feat for a woman to be one of Malaysia's top 4 astronaut candidates of the space programme. Her stories not only inspired them to reach for their dreams but also gave them a sense of belief that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.

The audience

Vanajah explaining about the space programme

It was a great weekend in Lawas, and Vanajah Siva we salute you...

Gerhana Matahari Penuh di Yangshanzhen

2009-07-23T05:44:00.000-07:00

Sebelum gerhana penuh

22hb Julai 2009, Pulau Yanshanzhen, China

Saya telah menyertai rombongan sains yang diketuai oleh En. Sam Gibbs (Aerospace Edu) dan Dr. Chong Hon Yew (USM). Misi kami ialah untuk menyaksikan gerhana matahari penuh yang terpanjang di dalam abad ini, kejadian yang serupa hanya akan diulangi pada tahun 2132. Pulau Yangshanzhen yang berkedudukan di bahagian selatan kotaraya Shanghai terletak tepat pada garisan laluan gerhana matahari yang akan memberikan kegelapan 'totality' selama 6 minit. Pagi itu cuaca agak mendung tetapi kami tetap memasangkan peralatan kami di atas kawasan bumbung Hotel Yangshan. Gerhana bermula pada pukul 830 pagi tetapi awan tebal tidak memberi sebarang ruang untuk kami melihat matahari. Kami sabar menunggu dan kadangkala ia muncul dari belakang awan untuk kami menyaksikan kehebatannya. Sememangnya ia merupakan kejadian yang amat menakjubkan. Teleskop, kamera dan alat 'video cam' digunakan untuk merakamkan peristiwa yang bersejarah ini. Sebelum terjadinya gerhana penuh kami dapat melihat bayang-bayang bulan menghampiri lokasi kami dari bahagian barat. Dengan tiba-tiba kegelapan melanda kami. Siang menjadi malam. Kejadian ini amat ganjil dan saya berasa terharu mengalami fenomena ini. Keadaan di sekeliling kami gelap-gelita, cuma kelihatan cahaya merah yang pudar di sebelah utara di kawasan bukit-bukau. 6 minit berlalu dengan cukup pantas sebelum siang kembali. Ia merupakan pengalaman yang paling menakjubkan dan saya berharap berpeluang untuk menyaksikannya sekali lagi dengan harapan saya lebih bersedia menghadapinya....

Faiz

Gambar-gambar...

Kawasan bumbung Hotel Yangshan

Jalan utama

Bukit-bukau Yangshan

Video cam saya

Joanne dan Mildred dari UK

Dr. Chong dari USM

Masdiana dari USM

Mazlina dari USM

Dr. Chong memberi taklimat

Gin Seng peserta termuda kami dari Aerospace Edu

Jonathan dari USM

Semua orang tengah sibuk

Gerhana matahari dilihat dengan mata kasar

Ben dari Pulau Pinang

Dapat apa-apa tak?

Menunggu untuk kemuncak gerhana matahari

Bersama Sam

Selepas totality

Sam dan peralatannya...

Solar Eclipse in Yangshanzhen, China

2009-07-23T03:50:00.000-07:00

Approaching totality

22nd July 2009, Yanshanzhen Island, China

I was part of a scientific expedition lead by Sam Gibbs (Aerospace Edu) and Dr. Chong Hon Yew (USM). Our mission was to observe the longest total solar eclipse in this century, whereby the next similar one will be in 2132. Yangshanzhen Island, is located to the south of Shanghai and is on the centreline of the eclipse path that would provide us with 6 minutes of totality. That morning we woke up to cloudy weather conditions in the island but we went on and set up our equipment on the rooftop of the Yangshan Hotel. First contact started at 830am but the heavens had shut the sky up for us. We waited patiently and got sneak peeks of the sky as the clouds parted occasionally to tease us. It was a spectacle to catch a glimpse of the sun with the eclipse in motion. Telescopes, cameras and video cams were working in full force and emotions ran high. A few minutes before totality, we could see the moon’s shadow approach us really fast from the western end. Suddenly darkness fell upon us. The day had turned into night. Nature got confused and I was in awe of the phenomenon. I only saw a glimmer of reddish light in the northern horizon but everything else was pitch-black. 6 minutes felt like only a moment and just like that, daylight appeared again. It was a surreal experience and I hope I get another chance to witness it. I’ll be ready next time…

Faiz

Enjoy the pics...

Our site above the Yangshan Hotel

The main street

The Yangshan hilltop

My video cam

Joanne and Mildred all the way from UK

Dr. Chong setting his equipment up

Masdiana from USM

Mazlina USM

Dr. Chong explaining to the locals

Gin Seng our youngest member from Aerospace Edu

Jonathan from USM

Everyone in action

Viewing the sun without filters

Ben from Penang

All in a row

Waiting for totality

With Sam...yeahoo...

After totality

Sam with his setup...bye for now...

RazakSat Berjaya Dilancarkan Ke Orbit

2009-07-18T03:33:00.000-07:00

KUALA LUMPUR, 14 Julai (Bernama) -- RazakSAT, satelit remote sensing kedua Malaysia, berjaya dilancar ke angkasa pada pukul 11.35 pagi waktu Malaysia dari Kwajalein Atoll di Kepulanan Marshall di Lautan Pasifik.

Setelah 20 minit dilancarkan, satelit seberat 180 kilogram itu memasuki Orbit Hampir Khatulistiwa (NEqO) untuk menjadi satelit pencerapan bumi pertama dilancarkan ke NEqO, demikian menurut Kementerian Sains, Teknologi dan Inovasi (MOSTI) dalam satu kenyataan di sini Selasa.

Pelancaran di Pulau Omelek itu menggunakan pelancar Falcon 1 Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) berjalan lancar setelah empat jam tertangguh bagi memenuhi beberapa keperluan teknikal.

Menurut MOSTI, sejam setengah selepas pelancaran, hubungan awal dapat dilaksanakan oleh Agensi Angkasa Negara (Angkasa) di Sungei Lang di Banting dengan RazakSAT.

Menteri Sains, Teknologi dan Inovasi Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili dan para pegawai dari kementerian dan agensi Astronautic Technology (M) Sdn Bhd berada di Guam untuk menyaksikan pelancaran melalui siaran web.

Para pegawai kementerian yang diketuai oleh Timbalan Menteri Fadillah Yusof menyaksikan pelancaran itu di Angkasa di Banting dan mengadakan telepersidangan dengan kumpulan di Guam melalui siaran web.

Kegembiraan dapat dilihat apabila satelit itu, dinamakan sempena Perdana Menteri Malaysia kedua Tun Abdul Razak Hussein, dilancarkan ke angkasa selepas hujan renyai-renyai dan angin kuat di tapak pelancaran.

Dr Ongkili berkata pelancaran berkenaan mencatat sejarah bukan hanya kepada Malaysia tetapi juga kepada dunia. Satelit itu akan mengelilingi orbit NEqO pada altitud nominal 685 kilometer.

"Saya mengucapkan tahniah kepada ATSB kerana membina satelit Malaysia sendiri, RazakSAT 1Malaysia Satelit NEqO Pertama Dunia," kata Dr Ongkili.

RazakSAT membawa kamera resolusi tinggi yang boleh merakam imej dari angkasa untuk pelbagai aplikasi untuk memberi faedah bukan hanya kepada Malaysia, tetapi negara-negara di kawasan khatulistiwa.

Lokasi orbit itu akan membolehkan peningkatan kekerapan pemerhatian imej serta imej-imej boleh digunakan untuk tujuan pemetaan lanskap, ketepatan pertanian, biomas perhutanan, perancangan bahagian marin, mengurangkan bencana, perancangan bandar dan rangkaian jalan.

Dr Ongkili berkata semasa satelit lain beroperasi di orbit polar (Sun Synchronous Orbit), RazakSAT� beroperasi pada NEqO dan akan meliputi 70 peratus daripada lautan, di mana fenomena cuaca seperti La Nina bermula.

"Ini akan membolehkan saintis mengkaji dan memantau pelbagai faktor kritikal yang akan menyumbang dengan ketara kepada sains," katanya.

Beberapa negara di Asia, benua Afrika dan Amerika Latin telah menyatakan minat untuk menggunakan imej yang dirakam oleh RazakSAT, katanya.

Malaysia, kata beliau, juga akan menawarkan data berkenaan untuk bidang pengetahuan bagi faedah masyarakat d seluruh rantau Khatulistiwa.

Remote Sensing Malaysia, agensi dalam kementerian, akan bertanggungjawab menerima data daripada RazakSAT dan membangunkan aplikasinya, kata Dr Ongkili.

RazakSAT merupakan kesinambungan program TiungSAT-1, satelit remote sensing pertama negara yang dilancarkan pada 2000. Bagaimanapun RazakSAT adalah satelit dengan fungsi sepenuhnya dalam pemantauan permukaan bumi dan alam sekitar.

Dr Ongkili yakin pencapaian itu akan meningkatkan dan memberi inspirasi agensi kementerian dan rakyat Malaysia untuk terus berusaha untuk menjadi inovatif dan kreatif, terutamanya dengan negara bakal menyambut Tahun Kreativiti dan Inovasi tahun depan.

"Kita menyasar untuk meletakkan Malaysia dalam dunia sains dan inovasi, bukan hanya dengan meneroka dunia tanpa sempadan tetapi melangkauinya, ke ruang angkasa," katanya.

Beliau juga mengumumkan bahawa SpaceX telah bersetuju untuk melancarkan dua satelit mikro iaitu CubeSAT dan InnoSAT, untuk tujuan pendidikan tahun depan dengan Falcon 9.

CubeSAT dimajukan oleh ATSB manakala InnoSAT oleh tiga universiti tempatan, iaitu Universiti Sains Malaysia, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia dan Universiti Malaysia Perlis.

Dr Ongkili berkata kejayaan RazakSAt adalah hasil sumbangan pemimpin negara iaitu bekas Perdana Menteri Tun Mahathir Mohamad dan Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi serta Perdana Menteri sekarang ini Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, di atas segala usaha, keyakinan dan wawasan dalam mengilhamkan RazakSAT.

Satelit RazakSAT� akan beroperasi melalui segmen daratnya di Malaysia, yang terdiri daripada Stesen Kawalan Misi (MCS) dan Stesen Penerimaan Imej dan Pemprosesan (IRPS).

-- BERNAMA

RazakSAT Successfully Blasts Off Into Space

2009-07-18T03:26:00.000-07:00

KUALA LUMPUR, July 14 (Bernama) -- RazakSAT, Malaysia's second remote sensing satellite, blasted off into space at 11.35 am Malaysian time from Kwajalein Atoll in the Pacific Ocean's Marshall Islands.

Twenty minutes into launch, the 180kg satellite entered the Near Equatorial Orbit (NEqO) to become the world's first remote sensing satellite launched into the NEqO, the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation said in a statement here Tuesday.

The launch at Omelek Island using Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX)'s launcher Falcon 1 went smoothly after a four hour delay due to the need to fulfill some technical requirements.

The ministry said that one-and-a-half hours into the launch, initial contact was established by the National Space Agency at Sungei Lang in Banting with Razaksat.

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili and officials from the ministry and agency Astronautic Technology (M) Sdn Bhd were in Guam to witness the launch via webcasting.

Simultaneously, the ministry officials led by Deputy Minister Fadillah Yusof watched the launch and held a teleconference with the group in Guam via webcasting at the National Space Agency in Banting, Selangor.

There was an air of jubilance when the satellite, named after Malaysia's second prime minister Tun Abdul Razak Hussein, blasted into space after a drizzle and strong wind at the launch site.

Dr Ongkili said the launch was historical not only for Malaysia but the world. The satellite will orbit the NEqO at an altitude of nominal 685km.

"I congratulate ATSB for building Malaysia's own RazakSAT 1Malaysia World First NEqO Satellite," Dr Ongkili said.

RazakSAT carries a high resolution camera that can take images from space for different applications to benefit not only Malaysia, but countries along the equatorial region.

The orbital location will enable an increased frequency of image observation, and the images can be applied to precision farming, landscape mapping, forest biomass, marine spatial planning, disaster mitigation, urban and road network planning.

Dr Ongkili said that while other satellites operate on polar orbit (Sun Synchronous Orbit), the RazakSAT� operates at NEqO and will cover 70 percent of the oceans, where weather phenomena such as La Nina originate.

"This will allow scientists to study and monitor various critical factors that will contribute significantly to science," he said.

Several countries in Asia, the African continent and Latin America have expressed interest in utilising the images captured by RazakSAT, he said.

Malaysia, he said, would also be offering the data to contribute to the field of knowledge to benefit societies all over the equatorial region.

Remote Sensing Malaysia, an agency within the ministry, would be responsible for receiving the data from RazakSAT and developing its applications, Dr Ongkili said.

RazakSAT is a continuation of the TiungSAT-1 programme, the country's first remote sensing satellite launched in 2000. However, RazakSAT is a fully functional satellite in monitoring the earth's surface and environment.

Dr Ongkili is confident the achievement would propel and inspire the ministry's agencies and Malaysians at large to continue to strive to be innovative and creative, particularly as the country celebrates the Year of Creativity and Innovation next year.

"We aim to make a mark for Malaysia in the world of science and innovation, not just by exploring the borderless world but to go beyond, into space," he added.

He also announced that SpaceX has agreed to launch the two micro-satellites CubeSAT and InnoSAT, meant for educational purposes, next year on Falcon 9.

CubeSAT was developed by ATSB while InnoSAT by three local universities, namely Universiti Sains Malaysia, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia and Universiti Malaysia Perlis.

Dr Ongkili attributed the success of RazakSAt to the national leaders - former prime ministers Tun Mahathir Mohamad and Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi as well as current Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak - for their unwavering support, confidence and visionary leadership in innovating RazakSAT.

The RazakSAT� satellite will be operated through its ground segment in Malaysia, consisting of a Mission Control Station (MCS) and Image Receiving and Processing Station (IRPS).

-- BERNAMA

Razaksat Sedia Untuk Dilancar Selasa Ini 14hb Julai 2009

2009-07-12T08:32:00.000-07:00

KUALA LUMPUR, 12 Julai (Bernama) -- Inovatif kabanggaan Malaysia, satelit RazakSAT, sudah bersiap sedia untuk dilancarkan mengikut jadual pada hari Selasa ini dari Kwajalein Atoll di Republik Marshall Islands.

Menteri Sains, Teknologi dan Inovasi Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili; Timbalan Ketua Setiausaha (Dasar) kementerian Datuk Dr Sharifah Zarah Syed Ahmad; dan pegawai-pegawai kanan kementerian itu dijangka tiba di Guam hari ini untuk menyaksikan pelancaran bersejarah satelit itu menerusi siaran langsung yang disiarkan oleh laman web, menurut satu kenyataan kementerian itu di sini Ahad.

Menurutnya sebaik tiba Ongkili bersama delegasinya diberi taklimat berhubung persiapan pelancaran itu oleh Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Astronautic Technology (M) Sdn Bhd (ATSB) Datuk Dr Ahmad Sabirin Arshad.

Satelit RazakSAT bersama kenderaan pelancarnya, Falcon 1, yang dikendalikan oleh Space Explortion Technologies Amerika (SpaceX) ketika ini sudah ditempatkan di pad pelancaran di Pulau Omelek, yang merupakan tapak pelancaran.

Satelit penderiaan jauh 180kg itu direka, dibangun, dibina dan diuji secara tempatan, dan ia juga adalah satelit penderiaan jauh pertama yang akan mengorbit khatulistiwa.

Satelit yang mengambil sempena nama Perdana Menteri Malaysia kedua Tun Abdul Razak Hussein itu akan mengorbit Near Equator Orbit (NEqO) pada altitud nominal 685km.

Lokasi orbit akan membolehkan peningkatan kekerapan dalam pemerhatian imej permukaan bumi dan alam sekitar.

RazakSAT akan membawa kamera resolusi tinggi yang akan merakam imej dari angkasa untuk pelbagai aplikasi seperti pertanian tepat, memeta lanskap, pencegahan bencana, rancangan rangkaian jalan dan bandar, yang bukan sahaja memberi manfaat kepada Malaysia, tapi juga kepada lain-lain negara yang terletak di sekitar garisan khatulistiwa.

Imej-imej itu juga boleh digunakan untuk mengkaji pelbagai fenomena meteorologikal.

"Saya berpuas hati dengan persiapan dan langkah-langkah perlu yang diambil oleh ATSB dan SpaceX bagi memastikan pelancaran yang lancar. Kami harap semua rakyat Malaysia akan mendoakan kejayaan pelancaran RazakSAT ini," kata Ongkili.

Semasa lawatan ke Guam, Ongkili dan delegasinya juga akan melawat makmal marin, warisan marin dan pusat oceanografi di University of Guam.

-- BERNAMA

Razaksat prepares for Launch this Tuesday 14th July 2009

2009-07-12T08:23:00.000-07:00

KUALA LUMPUR, July 12 (Bernama) -- Malaysia's innovation pride, the RazakSAT satellite, is all set for a lift off as scheduled on Tuesday (July 14) from Kwajalein Atoll in the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili, the ministry's deputy secretary-general (Policy) Datuk Dr Sharifah Zarah Syed Ahmad and senior officials arrived in Guam today to witness the historical launch, via live webcasting, a statement from the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti) said Sunday.

It said upon arrival, the minister and his delegates were briefed on the readiness of the launch by Astronautic Technology (M) Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Dr Ahmad Sabirin Arshad.

The minister was also informed that the satellite and launch vehicle, the Falcon 1, which is operated by United States's Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX), have now been erected on the launch pad at Omelek Island, the launch site for Falcon 1.

The 180kg remote sensing satellite was designed, developed, built and tested locally and it will also be the first remote sensing satellite to orbit the Equator.

Named after Malaysia's second prime minister Tun Abdul Razak Hussein, it will orbit the Near Equator Orbit (NEqO) at a nominal altitude of 685km.

The orbital location will allow increased frequency in the image observation of the Earth's surface and environment.

RazakSAT will carry a high resolution camera which can capture images from space for differnt applications such as precision farming, landscape mapping, disaster mitigation, urban and road network planning, which will not only benefit Malaysia but also other countries along the equatorial region.

The images could also be used to study various meteorological phenomena.

According to the statement, prior to this, the launch if the Low Equatorial Orbit (LEO) satellite was delayed due to vibration problems on the launch vehicle.

However it said all issues related to the problem had been rectified with upgrading carried out by SpaceX.

"I am satisfied with the preparations and necessary steps taken by ATSB and SpaceX to ensure a smooth launch. We hope all Malaysians will pray for the successful launch of RazakSAT," Ongkili said.

During the visit to Guam, Ongkili and his delegation are also scheduled to visit a marine laboratory and marine heritage and oceanography centre at the University of Guam.

-- BERNAMA

Gerhana Matahari Penuh

2009-06-16T06:40:00.000-07:00

Gerhana matahari pada 22 Juli 2009 adalah gerhana matahari penuh yang boleh dilihat sepanjang koridor yang melepasi Bangladesh, China, India, Nepal dan Pasifik tengah. Gerhana ini akan berlangsung selama 6 minit 39 saat pada kemuncaknya.

Jika anda berminat untuk mengikuti rombongan ke negara China untuk menyaksikan gerhana matahari ini dari 20hb Juli hingga 24hb Juli 2009 sila hubungi Mental Link Educational Tour & Event 03-62774388 www.mentallink.com.my

Solar Eclipse Tour

2009-06-16T06:32:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, 2009 July 22, a total eclipse of the Sun is visible from within a narrow corridor that traverses half of Earth. The path of the Moon's umbral shadow begins in India and crosses through Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar and China. After leaving mainland Asia, the path crosses Japan's Ryukyu Islands and curves southeast through the Pacific Ocean where the maximum duration of totality reaches 6 min 39 s. A partial eclipse is seen within the much broader path of the Moon's penumbral shadow, which includes most of eastern Asia, Indonesia, and the Pacific Ocean.

If you are interested to go on a solar eclipse tour from the 20th to 24th July 2009 to China kindly call Mental Link Educational Tour & Event 03-62774388 www.mentallink.com.my

Angkasawan meminum air yang dikitar semula di stesen angkasa

2009-05-22T04:41:00.000-07:00

Koichi Wakata, Gennady Padalka dan
Michael Barratt meminum air yang dikitar semula

Angkasawan-angkasawan di stesen angkasa antarabangasa kini meminum air yang dikitar semula dari sumber air kencing sendiri, peluh dan juga udara yang dihembus keluar.

"Rasanya hebat!'' kata angkasawan Amerika Syarikat Michael Barratt, selepas meminum contoh air dari sebuah beg minuman yang dilabelkan "Hanya minum jikalau air tulen tidak boleh diperolehi di dalam jarak 200 batu jauhnya."

NASA menyifatkan sistem mengkitar semula air di stesen angkasa antarabangsa itu sebagai satu kejayaan yang akan memberikan kesan yang penting untuk melanjutkan tempoh jangka masa seseorang angkasawan boleh berada di angkasa lepas.

21hb Mei 2009

Berita lanjut:

http://news.cnet.com/8301-19514_3-10245857-239.html

Astronauts drink recycled urine on space station

2009-05-20T21:26:00.000-07:00

Koichi Wakata, Gennady Padalka, and
Michael Barratt take a sip of recycled urine

Astronauts on board the international space station are drinking water recycled from their own urine, sweat and exhaled air.

"The taste is great,'' American astronaut Michael Barratt said after taking a sip from his drinking bag, marked with a label that said: "Drink this when real water is over 200 miles away."

NASA hailed the urine recycling system as "a huge milestone'' when unveiling it yesterday.

21st May 2009 from illawarramercury.com.au

For more click on:

http://news.cnet.com/8301-19514_3-10245857-239.html

Lawatan ke Pusat menyimpan Kapal Terbang

2009-04-28T08:01:00.000-07:00

Isnin 27hb April, Kami telah membuat lawatan ke pusat menyimpan kapal terbang kepunyaan syarikat Dnest di lapangan terbang Subang. Kami membawa rombongan murid-murid sekolah APIIT melihat bermacam-macam jenis kapal terbang dan juga mempertengahkan aspek keselamatan di situ. Mereka sempat melihat jurutera membaiki enjin pesawat dan juga melihat secara dekat bahagian-bahagian sebuah pesawat. Keseronokan memuncak apabila adik-adik semua dapat memasuki sebuah pesawat jet dan melihat sendiri dek pernebangan pesawat tersebut...woohooo... Kami cukup seronok!!!

Sam bersama rombongan

Sam memberi taklimat

Panas betul di dalam sini...

Mari kita lihat helikopter

Saya pun turut seronok...

Jet nak datang!!! Bising betul...

Jurutera sedang bekerja di atas sana...

kapal terbang konsep

Yang ini boleh mendarat di atas air...

Sila masuk...

Saya nak jadi juruterbang...

Pesawat-pesawat lain di situ

Hangar Visit for Kids

2009-04-28T07:42:00.000-07:00

Monday 27th April, Aerospace Education organised a visit to the Dnest hangar in Subang Airport. We showed the kids a lot of aircraft and explained about the safety procedures within a hangar. They got to see engineers working on engine maintenance and got a close view of aircraft parts. The highlight of the day was getting inside a real jet aeroplane and getting to see the cockpit...woohooo... We had a fun day!!!

Sam with the kids

Sam explaining about the aircraft

Wow sure is hot in here...

Let's see some helicopters

Ok, I'm excited too...

Jet coming in...very noisy!!!

Engineers workin up there...

Concept aeroplane

This one can land on water...

In you go kids...

I wanna be a pilot...

More aircraft on the tarmac

Angkasawan Malaysia Jadi Juri Pertandingan Antarabangsa Airbus

2009-04-24T18:52:00.000-07:00

KUALA LUMPUR, 22 April (Bernama) -- Angkasawan pertama Malaysia Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha dipilih menganggotai panel 10 pakar antarabangsa bagi menghakimi pertandingan akhir Airbus "Fly Your Ideas", yang disertai pelajar dari seluruh dunia.

Panel juri bebas ini dianggotai lima wakil Airbus dan lima pakar industri.

"Angkasawan ini telah memberi ilham kepada banyak anak muda dari rantau ini dan tempat lain untuk meminati bidang aeronautik.

"Oleh itu, kami amat gembira dan berbesar hati dengan penyertaan Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar sebagai hakim dalam pertandingan kami ini, lebih-lebih lagi memandangkan sambutan hebat yang kami terima dari seluruh rantau ini " kata pengarah komunikasi Airbus rantau Asia Sean Lee dalam kenyataan di sini Rabu.

Pertandingan itu dilancarkan tahun lepas oleh Airbus -- antara syarikat pengeluar kapal terbang terkemuka dunia -- bagi mencabar kemampuan pelajar dari seluruh dunia yang menuntut di peringkat ijazah, sarjana atau PhD supaya mengemukakan idea inovatif dan mesra ekologi bagi mencorakkan bentuk industri penerbangan pada masa akan datang.

Lebih 2,350 pelajar dari 130 negara mendaftarkan diri untuk menyertai pertandingan itu dan daripada 225 pasukan yang dicadangkan penyertaannya pada peringkat awal, 86 dipilih bagi mengemukakan idea dalam pusingan kedua.

"Sambutan yang diterima dari Asia cukup hebat dan sebanyak 38 pasukan telah dipilih memasuki Pusingan Kedua, termasuk lima pasukan dari Universiti Teknologi Malaysia," katanya.

Dengan tinggal beberapa minggu saja lagi sebelum berakhirnya Pusingan Kedua, pakar Airbus daripada pelbagai bidang kini sibuk membuat penilaian terhadap cadangan yang telah dikemukakan, sebelum memilih lima pasukan untuk bertanding secara langsung pada pusingan akhir 19 Jun di Pertunjukan Udara Le Bourget di Paris.

-- BERNAMA

Maklumat lanjut di http://www.airbus-fyi.com/

Angkasawan On Jury Panel For Competition

2009-04-24T18:43:00.000-07:00

KUALA LUMPUR, April 22 (Bernama) -- Angkasawan Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor will be among an international panel of 10 experts to judge the live final of Airbus' global competition for students, 'Fly Your Ideas', on June 19.

The independent jury will comprise five Airbus representatives and five independent industry experts.

The live final will be held at Le Bourget Air Show in Paris.

The Angkasawan had inspired many young people from the region and beyond, to show an interest in aeronautics, Airbus Communications Director-Asia Sean Lee said today.

In a statement here today, he said Airbus was honoured over Dr Sheikh Muszaphar's participation as judge in the competition, especially given the great response it received from across the region.

The competition was launched last year by Airbus, one of the world's leading aircraft design and manufacturing companies, to challenge those pursuing bachelor's degree, masters or PhD in any academic discipline, to come up with and develop innovative and eco-efficient ideas to shape the future of aviation.

Over 2,350 students from 130 countries registered for the competition.

"The response from Asia was especially good with 38 teams from the region selected to go through to Round Two, including five teams from University Teknologi Malaysia," he said.

With only a few weeks remaining before the end of Round Two, Airbus experts from various fields are assessing the proposals and will select five teams to continue to the live final.

-- BERNAMA

More info on http://www.airbus-fyi.com/

Angkasawan candidates’ help sought

2009-03-27T04:58:00.000-07:00

KUALA LUMPUR: The Government is calling all short-listed candidates of the Astronaut Programme to help in its space programmes.

Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry secretary-general Datuk Abdul Hanan Alang Endut said the participation of the short-listed candidates before the final selection was done would help create greater awareness among schoolchildren and rural folk.

Currently, only Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor and Capt Dr Faiz Khaleed are involved in promotional and awareness programmes.

“The ministry will arrange for the other finalists to help in other similar activities,’’ Abdul Hanan said after representing Minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili in opening the International Science, Technology and Innovation Centre (Istic) office yesterday.

From TheStar Online

Friday 27th March 2009

Vanajah back for 6 months

2009-03-26T19:44:00.000-07:00

VJ and Dr. Sheikh

Vanajah Siva, Malaysia's top female finalist of the Angkasawan Programme is back in Kuala Lumpur for 6 months for her final thesis to complete her Master in Quality and Operations Management. She is currently attached with MEASAT Satellite Systems Sdn Bhd. We caught up with her recently at Rebung, Bangsar and we all had a great time.

VJ back then

We wish you all the best VJ...You are an inspiration to all!!!

Please support the Earth Hour this Saturday 28th March 2009
by switching off all lights for one hour from 830pm...

Taklimat Integriti di USIM

2009-03-08T19:20:00.000-07:00

Gambar bersama pelajar-pelajar USIM

Pada 25hb Februari 2009, saya telah memberi taklimat bertajuk Integriti dan Program Angkasawan Negara untuk para pelajar Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia dari Kolej Kediaman Sutera Indah. Taklimat itu adalah sempena "Minggu Integriti 2009". Walaupun malam itu hujan dan taklimat diadakan diluar, ramai pelajar sanggup hadir untuk menyokong program mereka. Kami berinteraksi dengan baik pada malam itu. Apa yang penting ialah perkataan "Integriti" menjadi sebutan pada malam itu dengan harapan ia akan terpahat didalam hati dan tingkah laku para pelajar di sana. Saya berharap agar pelajar-pelajar USIM akan berjaya didalam pelajaran dan kerjaya masing-masing di masa hadapan.

Semoga semua akan berjaya...sekian terima kasih.

Mohammed Faiz

Talk on Integrity at USIM

2009-03-08T19:06:00.000-07:00

A group photo with the students

On the 25th of February 2009, I gave a talk on Integrity and the Angkasawan Programme to Sutera Indah college residents of Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia. The talk was in conjunction with their "Integrity Week 2009". Though it rained that night and the event was held outdoors, the students came out in full force to support their programme. We interacted well and all of us had fun that night. What was most important is "Integrity" became the catch phrase that night and hopefully will be ingrained in the hearts and behaviour of all the students. I wish all of you the very best in your studies and future endeavour. Thank for having me and hope to see you all again.

Mohammed Faiz

Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar selamat pulang dari Gaza

2009-02-20T08:04:00.000-08:00

Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar bersama ahli-ahli persatuan

Baru-baru ini kami sempat berjumpa dengan Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar pada 8hb Februari 2009 di Restoran Rebung, Bangsar setelah beliau selamat pulang dari misi kemanusian di Gaza. Kami berpeluang mendengar pengalaman beliau disana yang cukup menyayat hati. Selepas itu mesyuarat bulanan persatuan dilangsungkan untuk menentukan arah dan objektif kami. Sila beri sokongan kepada kami dengan memberi maklumbalas anda.

Terima kasih,
Mohammed Faiz

Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar back from Gaza

2009-02-20T07:52:00.000-08:00

Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar with our members

We caught up with Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar recently on the 8th of February 2009 at Rebung Restaurant, Bangsar after safely returning home from his humanitarian trip to Gaza. It was very informative learning about his experience there. Our monthly meeting followed soon after to discuss on the direction of our association. Kindly visit our poll for your feedback.

Thank you
Mohammed Faiz

Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor in Gaza

2009-01-29T07:37:00.000-08:00

HE may have flown among the stars but Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha's heart is still very much in the operating theatre.

Malaysia's first astronaut joined the Malaysian Mosques Youth Assembly on their mercy mission to Gaza, hoping to contribute his expertise as an orthopaedic surgeon.

Although he only managed to spend one day in the Al-Shifa hospital operating theatre -- the two other days being taken up getting clearance to treat patients -- Dr Sheikh Muszaphar still considered his journey worthwhile.

"I came here as an orthopaedic surgeon, not an astronaut. The time I spent in space made me realise how small the world is. I can't just sit and watch things like this happen. I have to do my bit."

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar and two other surgeons spent almost six hours in the operating theatre working on a 26 year-old woman who sustained a gunshot wound to the shoulder 20 days ago.
"She had been sent to Cairo for five days and they sent her back, saying that nothing could be done.

"Our job was to try and save the limb. We hope she will make a full recovery."

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar said what he saw in Gaza was nothing like he had ever seen before. "All the operating rooms are full and the doctors are exhausted. There's only enough equipment and medicine for 20 per cent of the victims."

Worse, he said, was that many had been rushed to Egypt but were turned away at the border. When they returned, they were in worse shape.

"This is unacceptable. The problem here is that the Arab leaders are not united. If this problem is to stop, it's the Arab leaders who have to do it."

From NST Online

Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor di Gaza

2009-01-29T07:21:00.000-08:00

Pengalaman di Gaza

Selepas melihat kesengsaraan dan kematian yang berlaku di bumi Palestin akibat serangan tentera Israel , saya mengambil keputusan untuk mengambil tindakan secara drastik . Saya tidak boleh duduk berdiam diri sahaja melihat kekejaman tentera Israel melalui kaca televisyen . Alhamdullillah pada 19hb Januari 2009 , saya menyahut "panggilan" untuk berlepas ke Gaza melalui Bandar Kaherah bersama kumpulan NGO Pemuda Masjid untuk menghulurkan apa jua bantuan yang terdaya . Saya pergi ke Gaza sebagai seorang doktor Ortopedik dan bukan sebagai angkasawan .

Tiba di Bandar Kaherah , kami bermalam seharian sementara menanti dokumen yang diperlukan termasuk meminta bantuan dari Kedutaan Malaysia di Mesir. Kami bertolak ke Rafah pada sebelah petang dengan menaiki van yang mengambil masa selama 6 jam setelah melalui 11 pintu checkpoint kesemuanya tetapi malangnya pintu masuk ke bumi Palestin telahpun ditutup dan kami terpaksa bermalam di Bandar Arish hanya 30km dari sempadan.

Pada keesokan hari jam 0800 pagi kami sudahpun berada di sempadan Rafah dan berkesempatan untuk berjumpa dengan ramai ahli NGO dari negara negara lain termasuk MerC Indonesia dan Turkey yang masih menunggu sejak dari awal pagi lagi. Setelah 5 jam penantian akhirnya pihak kastam Mesir membenarkan kami masuk ke bumi Palestin.

Kami menaiki teksi dan terus menuju ke Bandar Gaza yang hanya 25km dari sempadan . Di sinilah segala pengeboman Bandar Gaza dapat dilihat oleh tentera Israel yang tidak kenal erti berperikemanusiaan. Saya melihat dengan hati sayu bangunan bangunan yang musnah akibat pengeboman Israel termasuk 18 buah hospital , 41 buah masjid , bangunan Parlimen , markas Polis , Universiti Islam dan pelbagai lagi .

Kelihatan rata rata rakyat Palestin hidup seperti biasa . Kanak kanak kelihatan bermain bola di tebing jalan , golongan wanita dan golongan lelaki berurus niaga seperti sediakala seolah olah tiada apa apa yang telah berlaku , berkemungkinan mereka telah biasa dengan peperangan semenjak tahun 1948 lagi .

Hospital Shifa

Saya berkesempatan untuk bekerja di Shifa Hospital sebagai doktor Ortopedik bersama doktor doktor Palestin selama 2 hari memberi bantuan yang termampu. Wad wad Ortopedik dan Surgery penuh dengan mangsa pengeboman termasuk golongan wanita dan kanak kanak dan kepakaran doktor tidak mencukupi bekerja tanpa mengenal penat lelah .

Kebanyakan pesakit yang dihantar untuk mendapat rawatan di luar Palestin tidak dapat melepasi sempadan kerana ditahan dan terpaksa berdiaman di dalam ambulans selama 2 hari sebelum dihantar kembali ke Hospital Shifa iaitu hospital terbesar di Gaza. Saya sendiri telah membuat pembedahan ke atas seorang wanita yang telah terkena tembakan Israel setelah 19 hari kejadian tersebut berlaku . Setelah 6 jam melakukan pembedahan hanya masa yang akan menentukan samada tangan beliau boleh diselamatkan .

Saya sudahpun lakukan apa yang terdaya . Peralatan tidak mencukupi termasuk bekalan ubat dan kami lakukan apa yang termampu . Pengeboman Israel yang menggunakan biological weapon termasuk “ white phosphorus “ menyukarkan lagi keadaan .

Saya berkesempatan untuk berjumpa dengan Menteri Kesihatan Palestin yang meluahkan masalah yang mereka alami dan memohon bantuan dari negara negara Islam agar menamatkan kekejaman peperangan Israel terhadap penduduk Palestin termasuk memberi bantuan humanitarian aid . Saya pernah ke Afghanistan pada tahun 2002 bersama MERCY tetapi tidak pernah melihat keadaan yang begitu dashyat sekali di mana penduduk Palestin seolah olah terperangkap dan tidak dapat keluar untuk mendapatkan bekalan makanan mahupun perubatan.

Setelah 5 hari di Gaza kami terpaksa bergegas pulang kerana mendapat khabar berita bahawa Israel akan mula menyerang sempadan dengan tujuan untuk memusnahkan beratus ratus terowong yang menyambung Palastin ke Mesir . Saya berkesempatan untuk melihat terowong rahsia yang dibina dan berjumpa dengan anak anak yatim Palestin yang telah kehilangan ibubapa sepanjang 3 minggu pengeboman Israel terhadap Palestin. Saya kini berada di Kaherah berjumpa dan memberi ceramah motivasi kepada pelajar pelajar Malaysia di Mesir seramai 6000 pelajar kesemuanya.

Saya menyeru kepada rakyat Malaysia agar memberi sumbangan dalam apa jua yang termampu termasuk dana , makanan mahupun ubat ubatan . Bagi saya , sumbangan yang terbaik adalah doa doa dan sembahyang hajat kepada rakyat Palestin agar kesengsaraan mereka akan mendapat bantuan Allah SWT .

Wassalam

Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor

Angkasawan cleared of wrongdoing

2009-01-20T04:14:00.000-08:00

PUTRAJAYA, Mon 19th January 2009:

National Astronaut Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh may continue being under the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry's payroll but he will have to subscribe to a more stringent contract.

Minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili said probes into allegations that Dr Sheikh Muszaphar had been charging exorbitantly for motivational talks had been completed and that the orthopedic surgeon-turned-astronaut was given a show-cause letter, which he replied to.

"Except for a few things, by and large his answers were acceptable ... with that, we are on to the next phase, his next role in the Ministry and the whole (Angkasawan) programme. He acknowledged that there was charges made (for talks) and gave reasons for them. He qualifies to stay with the ministry if he intends to stay," Ongkili said.

The Ministry's legal unit will meet after the Chinese New Year to cover all loopholes and gray areas in Dr Sheikh Muszaphar's previous contract.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar, Ongkili said, had argued that he conducted talks, at night, outside of office hours. The probe also concluded that the astronaut had been conducting talks abroad and some of his commitment with the government contradicted with his engagements with the private sector.
Ongkili dismissed reports that the astronaut had become a millionaire by charging over RM8,000 an hour for each talk. Reports also claimed the fees did not include his hotel stays and flight tickets for appearances in Sabah and Sarawak, hinting he may have amassed such fortune since his space journey in October 2007.

The ministry then opened up the inquiry to the public, allowing them to lodge reports against Dr Sheikh Muszaphar.

"Yes, there had been some receiving of money ... In his own way he fixed the fees for the purpose (talk), but nothing of that sort (achieving millionaire status)," he said.

From NST

Angkasawan hopes to form Islamic Space Agency

2009-01-11T17:58:00.000-08:00

KUALA LUMPUR: Angkasawan Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor said yesterday his mission this year was to gather all the nine Muslim astronauts worldwide to form an Islamic Space Agency.

He said he had met Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Sultan Salman to discuss how to form the agency when he performed the haj last year.

Prince Sultan is a retired officer in the Royal Saudi Air Force and a former astronaut.

He is the grandson of King Ibn Saud and the only Saudi citizen to travel in space as well as the first Muslim to do so.

"I hope more Muslims can travel in space and more Muslim aerospace experts can meet and contribute to science and technology," said Dr Sheikh Muszaphar after a Batek Modelling exhibition in conjunction with Chinese New Year 2009 at Galeri Seri Endon.

On another matter, he said he had met Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Fadillah Yusof to clarify the allegation that he had amassed wealth from giving talks on his space experience.

He added that he was waiting for a response on whether his contract with the ministry would be continued.

Dr Sheikh Muszaphar was alleged to have charged RM8,000 per hour for his talks and also to have amas-sed RM1.2 million from 150 companies upon his return from the International Space Station in 2007. -- Bernama

Sukarelawan Angkasawan Dipanggil

2009-01-11T17:45:00.000-08:00

KUALA LUMPUR: Kementerian Sains, Teknologi dan Inovasi (Mosti) akan memanggil semula sukarelawan yang pernah disenarai pendek ketika sesi pemilihan angkasawan negara bagi membolehkan mereka turut terbabit membantu pelaksanaan Program Angkasawan yang dikemas kini.

Timbalan Menterinya, Fadilah Yusof, berkata panel khas sudah dilantik Mosti bagi meneliti maklumat serta kredibiliti sukarelawan terbabit dalam pelaksanaan program terkini, malah angkasawan negara Datuk Dr Sheikh Muzaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha dan Mejar Dr Faiz Khaleed akan turut dipanggil bagi membincangkan potensi dan pembabitan mereka dalam program itu.

"Keputusan kita untuk memanggil mereka adalah untuk membincangkan keseluruhan mekanisme serta berkongsi idea bagi meningkatkan lagi keberkesanan program, selain membincangkan pelbagai perkara berkaitan.

"Perbincangan bersama mereka dilihat amat membantu dalam usaha meningkatkan imej dan inti pati program ini kerana industri aeroangkasa adalah sektor unik yang mana bantuan dalam bentuk dasar dan kewangan dianggap satu kemestian," katanya ketika dihubungi di sini, semalam.

Program Angkasawan yang dirancang hasil perjanjian timbal balas pembelian 18 jet pejuang Sukhoi (SU-30) MKN dari Russia menjadi kebanggaan negara apabila Dr Sheikh Muszaphar berjaya tiba di Stesen Angkasa Antarabangasa (ISS) pada Oktober 2007.

Hampir 12,000 sukarelawan memohon menjalani latihan menjadi angkasawan namun hanya 200 terpilih untuk saringan awal dan ia ditapis lagi kepada 30 berdasarkan kriteria terperinci termasuk faktor kesihatan fizikal serta mental sebelum hanya 10 layak ke peringkat akhir.

Berita Harian 9hb Januari 2009

Angkasawan Negara di Arab Saudi

2008-12-17T06:35:00.000-08:00

Dalam perjalanan ke pejabat KAUST

Pagi ini saya berada di Jeddah dan sempat berjumpa dengan Angkasawan Negara yang baru-baru ini selesai menunaikan ibadah Hajinya. Beliau sudah berada di Arab Saudi semenjak awal bulan ini, sibuk memberi taklimat di Riyadh dan juga di Jeddah. Beliau akan berlepas ke Jordan pagi esok untuk memberi taklimat di sana pula.

Menandatangani buku tetamu

Pagi ini kami membuat lawatan ke pejabat King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST www.kaust.edu.sa) dan juga pejabat Malaysian Consulate di Jeddah. Kami sedang cuba mereliasasikan beberapa projek antarabangsa yang akan membangunkan industri aeroangkasa di rantau ini.

Bersama kakitangan Consulate

Kami berharap untuk berjaya supaya generasi akan datang dapat meraih keuntungannya...

Mohammed Faiz Kamaludin

Angkasawan in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

2008-12-17T06:11:00.000-08:00

On our way to KAUST Head Office

I was in Jeddah today and caught up with our Angkasawan whom had recently completed his Hajj. He has been in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia since early this month giving talks in Riyadh as well as Jeddah. He will be leaving for Jordan tomorrow morning scheduled for more talks there.

Signing the guestbook at the Consulate

This morning we visited the Head office of the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST www.kaust.edu.sa) as well as the Malaysian Consulate in Jeddah. We are looking into possibilities of developing several exciting international projects to promote the growth of the aerospace industry within the region.

With the Consulate Staff

Let's hope our efforts will bear fruit for our future generation to enjoy....

Mohammed Faiz Kamaludin

Kem Angkasa

2008-12-16T20:56:00.000-08:00

Kem Angkasa telah diadakan pada 13hb Disember 2008 di bangunan CREATE, Subang. Kem ini bertujuan supaya murid-murid sekolah boleh mempelajari ilmu aerongkasa dengan cara yang praktik dan riang.

Ariff bersama model kapal terbang

Makan malam ala BBQ

Di sinilah tempat tidur kami...yeah!!!

Pusat simulator

Hati-hati mendarat...

Projek robotik

Adik-adik bermain riang

Space Camp

2008-12-16T20:23:00.000-08:00

A space camp was held on the 13th December 2008 during the school holidays at the CREATE building, Subang. The objective of the space camp was to get children have fun learning about aerospace related activities. Enjoy the pictures...

Ariff with aeroplane models

BBQ for dinner

This is where we will sleep...yeah!!!

Flight simulator centre

You're cleared to land...

Robotics project

Kids having fun at the main lobby

Malam Astronomi Adil Adha

2008-12-11T10:50:00.000-08:00

Kakitangan Aerospace Edu , Sam Gibbs, Prof. Nor Azam dan saya

Sempena sambutan Aidil Adha, Aerospace Education Sdn Bhd telah menganjurkan Malam Astronomi di APIIT Smart School. Prof. Nor Azam Md Nor dari Universiti Sains Malaysia telah memberi taklimat yang bertajuk Pengenalan kepada Astronomi. Selepas itu giliran saya pula untuk bercakap tentang Program Angkasawan Negara. Video latihan centrifuge semasa proses pemilihan telah disiarkan kepada para hadirin yang terdiri daripada murid-murid sekolah dan juga ibubapa mereka.

Memberi taklimat

Disebabkan oleh keadaan cuaca yang tidak mengizinkan, aktiviti mencerap bintang terpaksa dibatalkan. Sebagai aktiviti gantian En. Sam Gibbs telah menyiarkan tayangan 3D yang mengambarkan bentuk permukaan bulan dan juga planet Marikh. Ia sememangnya menakjubkan dan banyak perkara kami dapat pelajari dari tayangan tersebut.

Ok belajar rajin-rajin ya...

Sehingga lain kali, Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Adha diucapkan kepada semua.

Aidil Adha Astronomy Night

2008-12-11T10:25:00.000-08:00

Aerospace Edu Staff, Sam Gibbs, Prof. Nor Azam and I

To celebrate Aidil Adha, Aerospace Education Sdn Bhd recently organized an Astronomy Night at the APIIT Smart School. Prof. Nor Azam Md Nor from Universiti Sains Malaysia gave a talk on Introduction to Astronomy and I followed with a presentation about the Angkasawan Programme. The crowd which consist of schoolchildren and parents were exposed to video clips of the centrifuge training we had to undergo during the selection process.

Giving my talk

We moved on to the main event which was to study the skies but due to low cloud cover, we were unable to do so. However Sam Gibbs showed us a great 3D presentation of the surface of the moon and mars to make up for the poor weather. In the end everyone enjoyed themselves and had a great time.

Ok study hard please...

Until next time Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Adha to all....

MISTI MOSTI Perlis

2008-11-23T06:21:00.000-08:00

Dari Kiri: Norhisham bin Ramli, Mej. Dr. Faiz Khaleed
& Wan Ahmad Jailani bin Wan Ngah

MISTI (Minggu Sains Teknologi & Inovasi) MOSTI Perlis telah berlangsung dari 12hb November hingga 15hb November 2008. Majlis perasmian telah dilancarkan oleh DYTM Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Jamalullail di Dewan 2020, Kangar, Perlis pada 13hb November 2008 (Khamis) pada pukul 3 tengahari. Menteri Sains, Teknologi dan Inovasi, Datuk Dr. Maximus Ongkili bersama Menteri Besar Perlis, Datuk Dr. Md Isa Sabu turut hadir pada majlis perasmian tersebutdi s pada .

DYTM Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Jamalullail

MISTI Perlis memberi peluang kepada agensi-agensi dibawah MOSTI untuk memaparkan produk, perkhidmatan dan kemudahan yang disediakan untuk masyarakat umum . Pameran ANGKASA mendapat perhatian ramai terutama di kalangan pelajar-pelajar. Sebuah Mini Planaterium diadakan bertujuan untuk membuat pencerapan suria matahari. Angkasawan Negara, Mej. Dr. Faiz Khaleed dan ahli persatuan (Wan Ahmad Jailani bin Wan Ngah dan Norhisham bin Ramli) turut hadir untuk berinteraksi dengan rakyat umum. Mej. Dr Faiz memberi taklimat dan berkongsi pengalaman beliau sepanjang MISTI yang berlangsung selama 4 hari.

Wan Ahmad Jailani memberi taklimat tentang proses pemilihan

Mej. Dr Faiz Khaleed berkongi pengalaman beliau

Berinteraksi dengan para pengunjung

Cantiknya Suria Matahari!!!

Harap kita bertemu di MISTI berdekatan dengan anda....

MISTI MOSTI Perlis

2008-11-21T18:59:00.000-08:00

From Left: Norhisham bin Ramli, Mej. Dr. Faiz Khaleed
& Wan Ahmad Jailani bin Wan Ngah

MISTI (Minggu Sains Teknologi & Inovasi) MOSTI was held in Perlis from the 12th of November to the 15th of November 2008. The event was launched by DYTM Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Jamalullail at Dewan 2020, Kangar, Perlis on the 13th of November 2008 (Thursday) at 3.00 pm. The Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Datuk Dr. Maximus Ongkili and the Chief Minister of Perlis, Datuk Dr Md Isa Sabu were present to grace the event.

DYTM Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Jamalullail

The event provided agencies within MOSTI to showcase their respective products and services to the general public. The ANGKASA booth was a crowd favourite among the students from various institutions. The Mini Planaterium received a lot of attention as well because special telescopes were made available to observe the sun. Angkasawan Negara, Mej. Dr Faiz Khaleed and members of our association (Wan Ahmad Jailani bin Wan Ngah and Norhisham bin Ramli) were present to interact with the general public. Mej. Dr Faiz gave speeches, signed autographs and shared his experience throughout the 4 day event.

Wan Ahmad Jailani explaining about the selection process

Mej. Dr Faiz Khaleed sharing his experience

Interacting with the general public

Sun Telescope...Wow great view!!!

The event was a great success and we hope to see you on the next MISTI hopefully in a location near you...

Majlis Makan Malam Perhargaan Program Angkasawan Negara

2008-11-11T06:16:00.000-08:00

Dari Kiri: Abdul Aziz, Ridzudden, Mohd Rizal, Mohammed Faiz

Malam semalam ANGKASA menganjurkan Majlis Makan Malam Perhargaan Program Angkasawan Negara di Hotel Equatorial, Bangi. Ketua Pengarah ANGKASA Dr. Mustafa Din Subari memulakan majlis dengan memberikan ucapan beliau sebelum makanan malam dihidangkan. Lebih kurang 250 undangan hadir termasuk 18 daripada 59 calon yang disenarai pendek semasa proses pemilihan Angkasawan Negara. Antara calon yang datang dari jauh adalah Abdul Aziz dari Kuching, Mohd Rizal dari Kota Bharu dan tidak ketinggalan calon tertua iaitu Mohd Anwar dari Seremban. Selepas makan malan, Menteri Sains, Teknologi dan Inovasi, YB Datuk Dr. Maximus Johnity Ongkili menyampaikan sijil kepada Datuk Dr. Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor, Mej Dr. Faiz Khaleed and kesemua pakar-pakar saintis dan tenaga pekerja yang telah menyumbang kepada kejayaan Program Angkasawan Negara.

Semasa Mesyuarat Kami

Selepas majlis itu, ahli-ahli persatuan kami mengambil peluang untuk mengadakan mesyuarat bulanan kami di restoran hotel tersebut. Sememangnya ia merupakan suatu malam yang akan sentiasa diingati. Mesyuarat bersurai sehingga bulan depan. Selamat malam kepada semua...

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