Mars and Beyond
− When it comes to Mars many academics recall that for nearly half a century from the late 1800’s onwards, people gazed upon that planet wondering what kind of engineering marvels made those "canals" possible. Yet in 1903 powered human flight was fact, spawning a new set of amazing feats closer to Earth and drawing attention away from "science fiction"; nevertheless it may turn out the production of the Mars airplane will make an aircraft which can make high-altitude flights within Earth's atmosphere feasible. What are your views regarding science fiction?
Dr. Asai: The motivation behind space exploration might have started due to human fascination with the skies and the stars, but I think in modern times this motivation is being driven by science fiction. In my case though, one motivator was the "Star Blazers" Anime, which left a great impression on me. For us, aerospace engineers, this might be science fiction, which makes our research move ahead but I think for the majority of the researchers it is this imagination which drives us towards achieving a world-class research.
Dr. Ando: Yes, I daresay I am in the same age bracket as Dr. Asai. Indeed, the "Star Blazers" space propulsion system, a system brought to Earth from space, is still quite intriguing. I do believe that "Star Blazers" Anime certainly had an impact on many scientists of our generation.
Dr. Makihara: I am somewhat familiar with "Star Blazers" but perhaps I am more in the "Gundam/Transformers" generation. Yet, such interests do provide as much an impetus in promoting aerospace studies as "hard" science, and motivation can take different forms. Results beckon.
Concluding on A Strong Note
− As for strong points of SoE in the aerospace field, these include hallmarks such as satellites, simulation, robotics and information-communication technologies. Japan is maintaining its high ranking in terms of R&D for this discipline, even against changes in circumstances like progress in privatization. Japan is showing an increased emphasis on cost-effectiveness and diversification of career paths for graduates. But is there more?
Dr. Asai: Well, I think I can speak for all of us when I say Tohoku University is one of the leading institutions in the field of space engineering, an institution providing great benefits to society. We can continue to offer excellence in research. I feel there are innumerable linkages to science available on campus here without restriction, not just to "astronomy" but to a diverse range of research areas. These are more strong points of our university and SoE makes them available to all those interested in aerospace studies.
Dr. Ando: Yes, I concur about the description and would like to underscore the fact that Tohoku University is an institution "open" not just to the rest of Japan and Asia but to the entire world too. I have had the opportunity to experience this first-hand through the many joint activities carried out together with researchers from around the globe. Moreover, SoE offers a great deal of freedom in dealing with the topic of "space"... we can offer new pathways to the future.
Dr. Makihara: I agree and would like to sum up by saying to all those, whether student or researcher, who are considering coming here by pointing out that the interdisciplinary settings will provide all of you the resources that you need. If there are people who think this field is of interest and wish to explore what is on offer, we seriously encourage you to take a look at Tohoku University. In fact, as per our discussion, SoE not only covers aerospace but other interesting areas as well. Perhaps one's future beckons!"
