NASA’s chief astronaut, Joseph M. Acaba, will be visiting Bangladesh for the first time. Acaba, a Puerto Rican-born astronaut and hydrologist, has been a prominent figure in space exploration and is set to meet with students, educational institutions, and media during his visit.

This historic visit, announced by the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka on Friday, December 13, will include a discussion with students, where Acaba will inspire them to pursue careers in space science, robotics, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. During his visit, he will also engage in talks on the technological advancements driven by space exploration, and its role in addressing global challenges, particularly the climate crisis.

As part of his itinerary, Acaba will participate in a television interview to discuss NASA's contributions to global science and technology, and how Bangladesh can benefit from collaborations in space research and technological innovation. He will emphasize the significance of the Artemis Accords, a set of principles promoting a safe, peaceful, and prosperous future in space exploration. Acaba believes these accords can help strengthen cooperation between NASA and Bangladesh’s growing space and technology sectors.

Acaba, who was appointed Chief of NASA’s Astronaut Office in 2023, has a long-standing career in space exploration. He was the first Puerto Rican-born individual to be nominated as a NASA astronaut candidate in May 2004. Acaba has participated in three space missions, spending more than 306 days in space. His experience includes conducting spacewalks and groundbreaking scientific research on the International Space Station.

The Artemis Accords, which promote peaceful and secure space exploration, are seen as a key tool in fostering stronger collaborations between countries like Bangladesh and NASA. Acaba’s visit is expected to inspire Bangladesh’s next generation of scientists and technologists, encouraging greater participation in global space exploration efforts.