Nasa has invited Indonesia’s National Flight and Space Agency (LAPAN) to contribute to the research programmes conducted on the International Space Station.

Indonesia is, however, unlikely to accept the invitation as research would result in large amounts of funding, according to LAPAN head Adi Sadewo Salatun.

Their participation would also require the country to compete against other developing countries to secure a part in ISS research.

Indonesia is expected to study the proposal while waiting for a decision on a science and technology agreement with the US.

The agreement will provide a framework for the two nations to work together on space research, nanotechnology, advanced technology and remote sensing.