Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui, staying at the International Space Station, renewed his resolve to successfully dock the Konotori cargo transport to the ISS using robotic arms — one of his main missions.
During a televised news conference from space late Tuesday, Yui, who has been aboard the ISS more than two weeks, said his sense of mission has become stronger since he arrived.
"The globe seems so small, and there is a growing sense inside me that I must protect this precious planet," Yui said.
He also said Japan was "beautiful" when the ISS passed over the country, adding that he lost words when he thought so about many people are working hard together in this small area.
The Konotori transporter is scheduled to be launched into space Aug. 16. Yui plans to use robotic arms to grab and dock it to the ISS to receive supplies.
