JAXA astronaut candidates completed robotics training at the CSA
In , Makoto Suwa and Ayu Yoneda, then astronaut candidates from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), completed eight days of robotics training at the Canadian Space Agency's (CSA) Robotics Training Centre, in Longueuil, Quebec. The training focused on Canadarm2, which is one of the Canadian robotics on the International Space Station (ISS).
JAXA astronaut candidates Makoto Suwa (left) and Ayu Yoneda (right) with CSA President Lisa Campbell in the main rotunda of CSA headquarters. (Credit: CSA)
JAXA astronaut candidates Makoto Suwa (left) and Ayu Yoneda (right) take robotics training at CSA headquarters in Longueuil, Quebec. (Credit: CSA)
After learning theory concepts in class, they put them into practice at a robotics workstation that is a replica of the one on the ISS. This workstation includes:
- a laptop with two hand controllers to adjust Canadarm2's side-to-side and rotational movements
- three screens displaying video from Canadarm2 and other exterior cameras
JAXA astronaut candidate Makoto Suwa looks at a scale model of the ISS at CSA headquarters in Longueuil, Quebec. Two CSA employees are also in the photo. (Credit: CSA)
JAXA astronaut candidate Ayu Yoneda works on a robotics workstation at CSA headquarters in Longueuil, Quebec. (Credit: CSA)
These workstations are designed to replicate the ISS environment. (Credit: CSA)
Makoto Suwa and Ayu Yoneda were both selected by JAXA on , and were officially designated as astronauts on . The CSA robotics training was part of their basic training. Astronauts from government agencies around the world must complete this training before launching to the ISS. Canadian robots assist in vital tasks such as performing maintenance on the ISS, supporting astronauts during spacewalks and capturing cargo ships.