An aeronautical engineer with a lifelong passion for space exploration is about to make history as Ireland’s first astronaut. Dr. Norah Patten, originally from Ballina, Co. Mayo, but now residing in Dublin, has been chosen as one of three research astronauts set to embark on a spaceflight aboard Virgin Galactic’s new Delta Class spaceship.
The upcoming commercial flight, organized by the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences (IIAS), aims to build upon the scientific knowledge and operational experience gained from their previous research spaceflight with Virgin Galactic in 2023. Joining Dr. Patten on this groundbreaking mission are IIAS bioastronautics researchers Kellie Gerardi from the United States and Dr. Shawna Pandya from Canada.
Expressing enthusiasm for the collaboration with Virgin Galactic, IIAS Founder and Executive Director Dr. Jason Reimuller highlighted the exceptional teamwork and expertise demonstrated by the researchers. The partnership seeks to maximize the research potential of Virgin Galactic’s Delta-class space vehicles while paving the way for future scientist-astronauts from IIAS.
Dr. Patten’s fascination with space began at the age of 11 during a visit to NASA in Cleveland, Ohio, where she developed a deep passion for space exploration. Following her studies in Aeronautical Engineering and a PhD from the University of Limerick, she furthered her space education by attending the International Space University (ISU) Space Studies Program in 2010. Subsequently, she became a bioastronautics researcher at IIAS and currently works with Realtra Space Systems Engineering, an Irish space start-up in Dublin.
Driven by her childhood dream and professional aspirations, Dr. Patten is eager to inspire future generations of engineers, astronauts, and innovators through her space journey. With Virgin Galactic’s mission scheduled for 2026, she is on the brink of realizing her long-cherished goal of experiencing suborbital spaceflight.
