Axiom Space, TUA to Explore Supply Chain Opportunities for the Turkish Space Industry Ecosystem

January 18, 2025
Mehmet Fatih KACIR, Minister of Industry and Technology and Tejpaul Bhatia, Chief Revenue Officer, Axiom Space

Axiom Space and The Turkish Space Agency (TUA) have signed an important collaboration agreement to explore and identify potential supply chain opportunities for the Turkish space industry ecosystem in the development of the planned Axiom Station and other Axiom Space activities. As part of this collaboration, the two parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) covering mutual cooperation in fields such as space technology, aerospace, textiles, material science, advanced manufacturing, communications, and life sciences.

This partnership aims to engage Türkiye’s younger population in space activities, inspire future astronauts, engineers, scientists, and leaders, and support the sustainability of the space industry while fostering innovation in other sectors.

From the International Space Station to Commercial Space Stations
The International Space Station (ISS) is set to remain operational until the end of 2030. After the ISS, commercial space stations will ensure the continuation of human activity and research in space. Axiom Space’s development of Axiom Station positions it as a leading next-generation space station. Notably, Axiom Space is the only company authorized to attach its modules to the ISS.

Shared Goals of TUA and Axiom Space
The primary objectives of the collaboration between TUA and Axiom Space include:

  1. Establishing a laboratory for research and exploration.
  2. Creating manufacturing facilities that leverage microgravity environments.
  3. Providing a platform to test space materials and validate technologies for deep-space missions.
  4. Building a hub for transportation, logistics, and other services in low-Earth orbit (LEO).
  5. Developing new platforms for communication and observation.
  6. Creating a training ground for professional astronauts.

The partnership envisions co-production of specific modules in Türkiye, bringing significant benefits to the Turkish space industry and strengthening its global presence.

A Critical Step in Our Space Vision
The MoU between TUA and Axiom Space supports Türkiye’s aspiration to become a global leader in space technologies. The agreement promises multifaceted contributions to projects such as commercial space station operations and upcoming lunar missions.

“As Türkiye’s, we are advancing toward a strong position in space technologies through international collaborations. The MoU signed with Axiom Space marks a milestone for the Turkish space industry and offers an opportunity to showcase our scientific, technological, and innovative production capabilities to the world.

This collaboration will strengthen Türkiye’s role in the global space ecosystem, spark interest in space among younger generations, and integrate them into this grand vision. The synergy created by combining the capabilities of both sides will foster cooperation in fields such as space technology, aerospace, textiles, material science, advanced manufacturing, communications, and life sciences.

Through these projects, Türkiye aims to claim a larger share of the global space economy, which is set to reach $1 trillion annually. We have achieved remarkable progress in aerospace and undertaken projects that position us among the leading countries in satellite technologies. With these new initiatives, we aim to secure further advancements in space technologies.

Under the leadership of our President, the inclusion of Türkiye’s engineering and production capacity in such pivotal projects will bolster our technological independence and contribute to making Türkiye a recognized brand in the space domain. I wish this significant partnership to be beneficial for our nation and humanity.”

-Mehmet Fatih KACIR, Minister of Industry and Technology

“As part of the Turkish Space Science Mission, we have taken a vital step today with Axiom Space, a partnership that will elevate Türkiye’s strength in the space industry to the global stage.

This agreement will not only guide our industry but also provide our youth with opportunities to explore the limitless possibilities of space, encouraging them to become the leaders, engineers, and scientists of tomorrow. By integrating Türkiye’s innovation and technological competencies into the space ecosystem, this partnership will solidify our international standing.

Each achievement in space technologies will offer both scientific and economic value to our country. I invite all our stakeholders to be a part of this significant journey.”

-Yusuf KIRAÇ, President of TUA

“As we celebrate the one-year anniversary of Axiom Space’s Ax-3 mission, which marked the historic milestone of sending Türkiye’s first astronaut to space in January 2024, we are thrilled to commemorate our continued partnership with the Turkish Space Agency. The partnership focuses on fostering industrial cooperation, leveraging Türkiye’s robust aerospace capabilities and tech startups, integrating Turkish suppliers into the global space supply chain.

Türkiye’s visionary leadership has propelled the country into the ranks of spacefaring nations. Today we are taking our collaboration to new heights by working closely with the Turkish government and its dynamic space industry to explore further potential in low-Earth orbit, ensuring continuous access to space while driving economic growth and technological advancements.

Together, Axiom Space and Türkiye are unlocking new opportunities for collaborative projects, inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers, and contributing to the growth of the space ecosystem. This exciting journey promises to elevate both our nations and many others within the ever-evolving domain of space.”

-Tejpaul Bhatia, Chief Revenue Officer, Axiom Space

About Axiom Space
Axiom Space is the leading provider of human spaceflight services and developer of space infrastructure for low-Earth orbit, the Moon, and beyond. The company’s expert team of operators and engineers deliver end-to-end missions to the International Space Station today as they build its successor, Axiom Station – an era-defining commercial platform that will sustain human growth off the planet and bring untold benefits back home. For more information about Axiom Space, visit www.axiomspace.com

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