Turkey's first astronaut is heading to space

According to a statement from the Ministry of Industry and Technology, the countdown continues for Turkey's first manned space mission.

In a post on his social media account X, Minister Kacır stated that Turkey's first space traveler, Gezeravcı, will head toward the International Space Station with the Ax-3 crew during the launch scheduled for 01:11 on the night connecting January 17 to January 18, adding, "This historic mission, in addition to being an important milestone in Turkey's space science studies, will also be a great source of inspiration for future generations."

Furthermore, Turkey's first astronaut, Gezeravcı, had also stated in a post on his social media account yesterday, "The quarantine, which is the first step of the operational process, begins today." The crew is expected to dock at the International Space Station at 13:15 on January 19, following a journey that will last 1.5 days.

SPECIAL COMMEMORATIVE STAMP DESIGNED

A special commemorative stamp and envelope have been designed by the Turkish Space Agency (TUA) and PTT for Turkey's first manned space mission, in which Gezeravcı will take the Turkish flag into space.

The stamp features various symbols, each holding special meaning for this important journey. On the left side of the stamp is an 8-pointed Seljuk Star, a symbol from the depths of history, which also includes the 100th Anniversary and Turkish Space Agency logos. Next to it is the silhouette of the first astronaut, Gezeravcı, with the Turkish flag on his shoulder. Around the stamp, 16 stars are positioned in honor of the 16 Turkish states in history.