Chiaki Mukai

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Chiaki Mukai (Japanese: 向井 千秋, Mukai Chiaki, born May 6, 1952) is a Japanese physician and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut. She was the first Japanese woman to go into space, and the first Asian woman to fly on two separate Space Shuttle missions. Mukai's contributions to space exploration and medicine have made her a prominent figure in both fields.

Early Life and Education

Chiaki Mukai was born in Tatebayashi, Gunma, Japan. She developed an interest in the sciences at an early age, particularly in biology and medicine. Mukai pursued her passion by attending the Keio University School of Medicine, where she earned her medical degree. She specialized in cardiovascular surgery, becoming a licensed physician and surgeon. Mukai furthered her education by obtaining a Ph.D. in physiology from the same university, focusing her research on the effects of microgravity on the human body.

Career

Medical Career

Before joining JAXA, Mukai had a distinguished career in medicine. She worked as a cardiovascular surgeon at Keio University Hospital, where she was involved in clinical practice and research. Her work in the medical field laid the foundation for her interest in space medicine, particularly in how spaceflight affects the cardiovascular system.

Space Career

Mukai's journey to becoming an astronaut began when she was selected by the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), now known as JAXA, in 1985. She underwent rigorous training, which included learning Russian and English, survival training, and completing advanced studies in space science and technology.

Her first spaceflight was on STS-65, the second International Microgravity Laboratory mission (IML-2), aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in July 1994. During this mission, Mukai conducted various scientific experiments in space medicine and biology, contributing valuable data on the effects of microgravity on the human body.

Mukai's second spaceflight was on STS-95, aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery in October 1998. This mission is notable for the participation of John Glenn, the first American to orbit Earth, making his return to space at the age of 77. Mukai served as a payload specialist, conducting experiments in life sciences.

Post-Spaceflight Career

After her spaceflights, Mukai continued to work with JAXA, contributing to space medicine research and astronaut training programs. She has also been involved in educational outreach, promoting science and space exploration to the younger generation.

Legacy and Honors

Chiaki Mukai's achievements have earned her numerous awards and honors, both in Japan and internationally. She is celebrated not only for her pioneering role as an astronaut but also for her contributions to medical science and space medicine. Mukai has served as a role model for aspiring scientists and astronauts, especially women in STEM fields.

See Also

• List of female astronauts
• Space medicine
• JAXA