Norah Patten Inspires Future Generations at UCD Space Event

An eager crowd gathered at University College Dublin’s George Moore Auditorium on a chilly Friday evening, anticipating an engaging discussion with Dr. Norah Patten, who is on track to become the first Irish person in space. Joined by fellow astronaut Dr. Shawna Pandya, the event aimed to inspire young minds about the possibilities of space travel and science.

As the audience, primarily made up of children, waited for the event to commence, excitement filled the air. A young boy voiced his impatience, repeatedly asking his mother when the talk would begin. This enthusiasm was palpable, highlighting the interest in space exploration among the younger generation. Dr. Patten and Dr. Pandya are set to embark on a suborbital flight aboard Virgin Galactic’s Delta spacecraft in 2025, where they will conduct research for the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences (IIAS).

The mission will focus on testing innovative healthcare technologies and studying fluid behavior in microgravity. This initiative marks a significant moment in space history, as it will feature an all-female research team, underscoring the growing representation of women in STEM fields.

Upon entering the auditorium, Dr. Patten and Dr. Pandya received a warm welcome, adorned in black boiler suits showcasing their respective national flags. Dr. Patten, an aeronautical engineer from Co Mayo, shared her expertise in microgravity environments, drawing laughter from the audience when she referred to microgravity flights as the “vomit comet.” She explained the challenges of training in such conditions, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the unique environment of space.

“Believe me when I say the last thing you want is for sick to be floating around the cabin,” Dr. Patten remarked, prompting laughter from the audience. She recounted her initial struggles with movement in microgravity, illustrating how even gentle pushes could lead to unexpected collisions.

The audience was then invited to participate, with hands shooting up to ask questions. One child inquired about the most frightening and exciting aspects of space travel. Dr. Pandya clarified that while they have not yet traveled to space, preparation is key in alleviating fears. “There’s nothing scary when you are prepared, and that’s the best thing about training,” she stated.

Another poignant moment came when a mother asked Dr. Patten how she plans to advocate for increased access to STEM subjects for young girls in Ireland. Dr. Patten, who is also a mother, expressed her hopes for her daughter’s generation. “It is really awesome to hear her say, ‘I am going to go to space with mummy.’ I hope the visibility of what we are doing will help,” she said.

As the event concluded, children eagerly approached the two astronauts for selfies and autographs, showcasing their excitement and admiration for the pioneers of space exploration. This gathering not only celebrated the upcoming flight but also served as a reminder of the importance of representation in science and technology. Dr. Patten’s journey is not just about reaching space; it is about inspiring future generations to dream big and pursue their ambitions.

With the countdown to their groundbreaking mission underway, Dr. Patten and Dr. Pandya are poised to make history, reinforcing the message that indeed, the sky is not the limit.