Turkey is constructing a spaceport in Somalia, reflecting its growing space ambitions spearheaded by President Erdogan. The first astronaut, Alper Gezeravci, recently highlighted these goals, including plans for indigenous satellites and a moon landing within ten years. This initiative demonstrates Turkey’s intent to strengthen its position in global aerospace technology.
Turkey is establishing a spaceport in Somalia as part of its expanding space program under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Alper Gezeravci, Turkey’s first astronaut, symbolized this ambition by delivering a patriotic message before embarking on a 14-day mission aboard a Falcon 9 rocket in January 2024. His statement, reflecting Turkish founder Kemal Ataturk’s vision, underscores Erdogan’s space aspirations, which include developing indigenous satellites and a planned moon landing by 2031. Gezeravci, after his mission, supported Erdogan’s AK Party in political activities.
The establishment of a spaceport in Somalia marks a significant enhancement of Turkey’s space ambitions initiated with the founding of the Turkish Space Agency in 2018. Following the agency’s inception, the Turkish government delineated a comprehensive ten-year plan that encompasses the advancement of domestic satellite technology and aims for lunar exploration. This initiative ties into Turkey’s broader geopolitical strategies by expanding its influence in Africa and enhancing its technological capabilities.
Turkey’s venture into space with the new spaceport in Somalia illustrates the nation’s commitment to bolstering its space industry and ambitions under the leadership of President Erdogan. The successful return of Alper Gezeravci signals a shift in Turkish national identity towards a more advanced aerospace program, aiming high with plans for satellite production and lunar exploration.
Original Source: www.economist.com
