Thailand Space Expo 2026 Concludes at ICONSIAM, 28 to 31 October, with JAXA Astronaut

The space trade show and exhibition Thailand Space Expo 2026 at ICONSIAM, held from 28 to 31 October 2026, concluded on a lively note with strong interest from large numbers of the public and youth. A key activity on the final day of the event was a stage appearance by Kimiya Yui, an astronaut from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, or JAXA, who shared his first-hand experiences of working aboard the International Space Station, with astronomy communicator Kornthong Wiriyasewatkul serving as moderator to connect stories of space exploration with audience learning.

The Crew-11 Mission Journey and Operations Aboard the International Space Station

The stage talk retraced the Crew-11 mission, which marked the second spaceflight for Kimiya Yui after he previously served aboard the International Space Station in 2015. On this latest mission, he served as a Mission Specialist alongside crew members from the United States and Russia, travelling aboard a Crew Dragon spacecraft launched into orbit by a Falcon 9 rocket on 1 August 2025. The astronauts joined the crew operating aboard the International Space Station and concluded their mission with a splashdown off the coast of California on 15 January 2026.

During his stay in space, Kimiya Yui took part in Expedition 73 and Expedition 74, taking over from astronaut Takuya Onishi from the previous mission. His role covered scientific experiments and innovation demonstrations inside Japan's Kibo module, as well as upgrading the space station's communications infrastructure. In addition, he participated in public outreach activities, reflecting the cooperation of personnel from multiple countries in keeping the orbital laboratory operating continuously.

Sparking Youth Learning and Connecting International Networks

Beyond recounting the sequence of events throughout the mission, the JAXA astronaut also presented video footage so attendees could witness the beauty of spaceflight. Real footage paired with explanations helped young people connect classroom knowledge with engineering advances and the preparation work of numerous personnel. Following the presentation, youth were given the opportunity to ask questions and speak directly with Kimiya Yui to inspire interest in science and broaden perspectives on career paths in the space sector.

Throughout Thailand Space Expo 2026 at ICONSIAM, attendees experienced both exhibitions and knowledge exchange with Thai and international experts. The event served as a networking platform for organisations, businesses and researchers to build upon business opportunities alongside national development. The success of the event therefore tangibly reflects how international cooperation can inspire and foster learning for the younger generation in Thailand.

This news is of particular interest to event organisers and operators in Thailand's MICE industry looking to study approaches to staging international exhibitions that attract both the business sector and youth. At the same time, travellers and families seeking constructive activities can use this information when choosing places to visit and learn in Bangkok. Meanwhile, hotel professionals in nearby areas can draw on trends in international trade shows to plan accommodation services for attendees and international working teams.