NASA’s Chief Astronaut Acaba Visits Bangladesh to Inspire Youth with BRAC Collaboration

Joseph M. Acaba, NASA’s Chief Astronaut, is set to visit Dhaka to engage with the country’s youth, educational institutions, and media. This visit marks a historic milestone as it is the first time a NASA Chief Astronaut is visiting Bangladesh.

During his visit, Acaba will participate in interactive sessions with students to inspire them to pursue careers in space science, robotics, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education. He will also discuss the role of space exploration in advancing technology and tackling global challenges, including addressing the climate crisis.

The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka announced the visit on Friday, December 13, though the specific date has not been disclosed. However, reliable sources indicate that Acaba is scheduled to speak at an event organized by BRAC on December 15 as part of his visit.

The embassy also stated that Acaba will appear in a television interview where he will elaborate on NASA’s contributions to global science and technology and discuss how Bangladesh can benefit from collaboration in space research and innovation. In particular, he will highlight the significance of partnerships through the Artemis Accords, which promote policies for a safe, peaceful, and prosperous future in space.

The Artemis Accords are expected to strengthen collaboration between NASA and Bangladesh’s growing space and technology sectors, fostering innovation and cooperation.

Joseph M. Acaba, a former teacher, hydrogeologist, and Peace Corps volunteer, was appointed Chief of NASA’s Astronaut Office in 2023. He is the first individual of Puerto Rican heritage to be selected as a NASA astronaut candidate, having been nominated in May 2004.

As an astronaut, Acaba has participated in three space missions, spending over 306 days in space, conducting spacewalks, and contributing to groundbreaking scientific research aboard the International Space Station.