- SKAO Director-General Philip Diamond Visits Korea to Discuss Future Cooperation in Space Observation -
The Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA), headed by Administrator Youngbin Yoon, announced that on Thursday, April 3, Philip Diamond, Director-General of the Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO)*, visited KASA to discuss cooperation on the Square Kilometre Array (SKA).
The SKAO is an international organization overseeing the SKA project. It is responsible for the construction and operation of the telescope, data processing and analysis, and international collaboration.
Director-General Diamond’s visit was arranged as a follow-up to KASA’s expression of intent to participate in the SKA project at the SKAO Council meeting held on March 18. The visit aimed to explore potential avenues for Korea’s contribution−both in terms of human resources and infrastructure−to the construction and operation of the SKA, and to lay the groundwork for a meaningful and long-term partnership.
Administrator Yoon conveyed Korea’s intent to proceed with the official accession process to SKAO and expressed expectations for future collaboration. He stated that Korea will actively work to strengthen its capabilities in space and astronomical research, enhance international cooperation, and support the participation of Korean researchers in SKAO activities. Director-General Philip Diamond gave a presentation on the current status of SKA’s construction project and its key scientific focus areas, and welcomed Korea’s participation, noting that it would be a valuable contribution to the development of SKAO. Both sides emphasized the importance of further solidifying the partnership between Korea and SKAO, and committed to advancing close cooperation in the field of space and astronomical science.
Administrator Yoon stated, “The SKA is a pivotal organization that will open new frontiers in astronomical research,” adding that “Korea’s participation will significantly enhance our space science capabilities and serve as a valuable opportunity to deepen international collaboration.”
For further information, please contact the Space Science/Exploration Mission Design Program (Phone: +82-55-856-5314) of the Korea AeroSpace Administration.