Space Encounters with Astronaut Naoko Yamazaki

Hosted by Dr Nikita Chiu, Associate Professor in Space Innovation & Technology Governance at Durham University Space Research Centre and Durham University Business School, the evening will conclude with a Q&A session, giving participants the rare opportunity to further dive into the wonders of Space Exploration. 

Date: 18 July 2025

Time: 5.30pm

Venue: Beamish Museum, Stanley, DH9 0RG

Speaker Bio:

Naoko became the second Japanese woman in history to fly in space, serving as a mission specialist on STS-131 aboard Space Shuttle Discovery in 2010. During the 15-day mission, she helped deliver science equipment and supplies to the ISS and became part of the first-ever group of four women simultaneously in orbit.

Trained as an engineer, Naoko first began her space career at NASDA (now the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency), supporting the development of Japan’s science modules - Kibo - for the ISS before completing extensive training with both JAXA and NASA. Naoko has championed global collaboration in space, STEM education, and sustainable space policy. She co-founded the Space Port Japan Association and serves as a Council Member of The Earthshot Prize, supporting innovation to repair our planet. She also serves as Chief Advisor to CN2i - a collaborative network to strengthen inclusive innovation for critical operations - launched at Durham University with our global partners in 2024. 

This event is convened in collaboration with Durham University Space Research Centre, Durham University Business School, Durham University Department of Management & Marketing, Durham University Institute for Advanced Study, St Chad's College, and Beamish Museum. 

Register to attend is essential via https://forms.office.com/e/FLGjUqLH7u.    Those who successfully register will receive further details and joining instructions in due course. 

For further details, please contact Dr Nikita Chiu, sze.w.chiu@durham.ac.uk