Kazuki is a first-year Ph.D. student in Aerospace Engineering focused on Human System Design Integration (HSDI) working with Dr. Daniel Selva. As part of NASA’s Human Capabilities Assessments for Autonomous Missions (HCAAM) Project, his research is on human spacecraft autonomy, examining how virtual assistants (VAs) can support anomaly resolution in deep-space missions with communication delays. Born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, Kazuki was inspired to pursue space exploration from a young age; at just five years old, he watched a space shuttle launch and became convinced of a future where the space industry would flourish.
He earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Tokyo in 2022 and 2024. For his undergraduate design project, Kazuki conceptualized a unique space habitat module, “Space Music Hall,” envisioned as a music facility within a space station. During his master’s program, he interned at JAXA, contributing to thermal operations for the EQUULEUS lunar CubeSat mission, launched aboard NASA’s SLS rocket. In his work on anomaly resolution in initial check out operations, he showed a depth of insight into deep-space systems and a dedication to mission success. Seeking to deepen his expertise in human spaceflight, Kazuki joined Texas A&M as a Ph.D. student in Fall 2024. Additionally, Kazuki is a founding member of the ECLSS LAB, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing on life support systems in space, with the goal of raising enthusiasm for human space exploration in Japan.
Known for his love of learning and connecting with others, Kazuki brings creativity and enthusiasm to his work and life. In his free time, he enjoys preparing sushi, exploring new places, running, rock climbing, and playing guitar.