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Author
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Topic: [ISS] Expedition 39 (March 10 - May 14, 2014)
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Robert Pearlman
Editor Posts: 42988
From: Houston, TX
Registered: Nov 1999
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posted 03-09-2014 06:27 AM
   
collectSPACE Koichi Wakata becomes first Japanese to command space stationThe International Space Station has its first Japanese commander. Astronaut Koichi Wakata of JAXA (the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) was handed over command during a ceremony held onboard the outpost early Sunday morning (March 9). Wakata, who has been a flight engineer aboard the space station since November, will lead the complex's 39th expedition crew through mid-May. "I am humbled to assume command of the space station," Wakata said, floating with his crewmates in the Japanese Kibo laboratory. "I am very proud as a Japanese to be be given this important commandership of ISS." "Welcome Wakata-san," radioed JAXA mission control in Tsukuba, Japan. "It is indeed a special day for the human space program, especially for the people in Japan." |
JBoe
Member Posts: 960
From: Churchton, MD
Registered: Oct 2012
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posted 03-09-2014 11:46 AM
My computer has problems with streaming videos, but what sort of "ceremonial actions" take place with this change of command? |
Robert Pearlman
Editor Posts: 42988
From: Houston, TX
Registered: Nov 1999
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posted 03-09-2014 11:53 AM
The only consistent tradition is for the outgoing commander to deliver some words, and then the incoming commander to do the same. Otherwise, it is left up to each crew what they will do. Sometimes the ceremony includes exchanging gifts and playing music. Once the crew has finished with their remarks, often one or more mission control centers offer their words of congratulations. For Expedition 38/39, Oleg Kotov spoke, then Koichi Wakata, then NASA Mission Control and then JAXA Mission Control. |
JBoe
Member Posts: 960
From: Churchton, MD
Registered: Oct 2012
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posted 03-09-2014 01:35 PM
It sounds like the changing of command is low key. I would have figured that those in the military would have similar pomp and circumstance as on earth with a change in military command. Although, a smaller ceremony is in order since they cannot invite friends and family like in the "traditional" sense. | |
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