The United Nations Human Space Technology Initiative (HSTI)

Paper number

IAC-11,B3,3,6,x9713

Author

Dr. Takao Doi, United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, Austria

Coauthor

Ms. Mika Ochiai, United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, Austria

Coauthor

Prof. Hans Haubold, United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, Austria

Coauthor

Dr. Werner R. Balogh, United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, Austria

Year

2011

Abstract

The largest development ever attempted in space, the International Space Station (ISS), will be completely assembled in 2011. Currently fully operational with a permanent crew of six, the ISS is an unique facility for activities such as scientific and technological research, astronomy, Earth observation, and educational outreach. The microgravity condition on the ISS provides an exceptional opportunity to deepen the understanding of physical phenomena as well as of space medicine. As a unique symbol of international collaboration, the ISS could be regarded as one of the greatest resources for humankind to explore outer space. 

The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), under the framework of the United Nations Programme on Space Applications, has launched the Human Space Technology Initiative (HSTI).

In close cooperation with the ISS partners, HSTI is aiming to create awareness among United Nations Member States on the benefits of utilizing human space technology and its applications in contributing to international cooperation on the peaceful uses of outer space. The initiative builds on the relevant recommendations related to human spaceflight and exploration contained in the report of the Third United Nations Conference on the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNISPACE III) held in July 1999.

The objectives of the HSTI are to provide information to UN Member States on a) the ISS, its management structure, research facilities, utilization activities, and opportunities to cooperate with the ISS partners; b) the use of the ISS for educational outreach programs; c) examples of past cooperation activities; and to provide opportunities to UN Member States to build indigenous capacity in microgravity education and research.

This paper, outlining the major activities of the United Nations Programme on Space Applications, will present the recent achievements of HSTI activities, including the results of the United Nations Outreach Seminar on the International Space Station held in February 2011.  Also, the paper will emphasize the significance of Human Space Technology, including the ISS, which could lead to a larger number of nations benefiting from space.

Abstract document

IAC-11,B3,3,6,x9713.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-11,B3,3,6,x9713.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.