Manten (2002)

Manten was raised on a small southern island of Japan and grew up surrounded by the tranquil mountains and sea. When she was little, she saw a liftoff of a space rocket with her father, and it left an unforgettable impression on her. Although sadly her father was lost at sea in a typhoon when she was just eight years old, he had planted the seed of nature's wonder in Manten, and she never forgot her father's dream, and her own dream, of going further--up into space. Now, at age 18, Manten is briskly told by her mother to figure out what she's doing with her life or start paying rent. Plus, a childhood friend declares his undying love for her. Suddenly encountering the complicated issues of life, Manten realizes that above all else, her old dream of space travel is her greatest desire and wastes no more time: she is off to accomplish her long-cherished ambition. But things are not that easy. If she wants to join NASDA, the National Space Development Agency of Japan, she must work hard to acquire the necessary skills. College plus at least three years experience in the field are required before she will even be considered by NASDA. How in the world will she ever make time for love? It's certainly a long-shot goal for Manten. Reckless yet righteous, Manten continues her space-bound journey of life, winning friends along the way.