Junichi Sakai

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)ISS Program Manager, Human Spaceflight Technology Directorate

SAKAI Junichi is the JAXA ISS program Manager oversees all elements of the KIBO's operation, utilization, Japanese astronauts' activities, and cargo resupply by Japanese vehicles. He is responsible for international coordination of JAXA space station activities, contributes to the creation and development of space station achievements, and promotes public understanding of the space station programs.

Sakai joined NASDA (National Space Development Agency of Japan, later Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency “JAXA”) in 1990. He has been involved in the ISS program since 1992, mainly in charge of the development of the control system for the Japanese Experimental module "KIBO", in 2007 he was also appointed JAXA Flight Director (J-Flight) for “KIBO” operations , in 2012 he became Director of the JAXA Houston Office for the international coordination support, and in April 2020 he was appointed the current position.

Sakai is concurrently Director of the Human Space Technology Centre, where, in addition to improving the functionality of the "KIBO" system and experimental equipment, he is conducting research on future manned systems and their component environmental control and life support systems.

Events

International Astronautical Congress 2024

14-18 October 2024

Milan, Italy

Participation: