Ireland’s First Astronaut Set to Make History with Virgin Galactic Spaceflight

Dr. Norah Patten, Ireland’s first astronaut, is set to make history with a spaceflight aboard Virgin Galactic’s new Delta Class spaceship. The mission, organized by the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences, aims to maximize research potential and pave the way for future scientist-astronauts. Dr. Patten’s passion for space began at a young age, leading her to pursue a career in aeronautical engineering and bioastronautics research. With the mission scheduled for 2026, she is on the verge of fulfilling her lifelong dream of experiencing suborbital spaceflight.