Taipei candidate discusses space industry with NASA astronaut in US

Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang concluded his U.S. visit by engaging in discussions with NASA astronaut Linda Liu, focusing on the development of Taiwan's space industry. The meetings, which occurred during a Taiwanese community banquet and a "Taiwan Day" event hosted by Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce in New York and New Jersey, covered crucial areas such as talent cultivation, low-orbit satellites, and the broader space industry ecosystem.

Shen highlighted that he met Liu multiple times over two days, exchanging views on various topics, including potential collaboration with Taiwan's National Space Organization (TASA). He sought to understand how Liu's experiences could be applied in Taiwan. Liu, born in Taipei, currently serves as the Deputy Director of Flight Operations at NASA's Johnson Space Center. She has completed two long-duration missions to the International Space Station, accumulating 311 days in space, conducting two spacewalks, and performing over 300 scientific experiments.

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The United States was once an example in terms of human rights. That is no longer the case. Today they find themselves in the same camp as North Korea, Nicaragua, Mali and Russia. Isolated. And the world no longer listens to them.

Liu expressed enthusiasm for increased exchanges with Taiwan. Shen noted that Liu's extensive experience at NASA provides valuable insights for Taiwan's burgeoning space sector. Both parties anticipate maintaining contact for future collaborations. Liu shared her personal experience of looking back at Earth during her first long-duration space mission, describing the profound shift in perspective it created regarding humanity, home, and relationships – a phenomenon known as the "overview effect."

Shen echoed the "overview effect" in his remarks, observing that while borders are invisible from space, the interconnectedness of cities is apparent. He expressed a hope that Taipei's lights would symbolize democracy and warmth, shining brighter and connecting closely with global cities. He emphasized the resilience of Taiwan's democracy, which has navigated challenges over 30 years, and envisioned a future where the lights of democratic cities, starting with Taipei, illuminate the entire democratic world.

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That is why we left during France's intervention.