An American company that takes ordinary people to space Virgin Galactic has announced that a Pakistani astronaut is among the passengers on board the expected flight on October 5, 2023.
Although the statement on the website of billionaire Sir Richard Branson’s company, Virgin Galactic, did not identify the Pakistani astronaut, a report in the Pakistani media last month referred to Namira Saleem as being the first astronaut of this year. Before the end, she will be the first Pakistani astronaut aboard Virgin Galactic to raise the national flag in space.
Namira Saleem also announced today on her X (formerly Twitter) account about her journey to space, writing that she is ready to fly to the stars.
Virgin Galactic previously announced that the ‘Galactic 04’ flight window will open on October 5, 2023. This will be the company’s fifth space flight this year and ninth so far. The company claims this will demonstrate Virgin Galactic’s ability to deliver safe, reusable spaceflight and a new experience for customers.
According to the company’s statement: ‘Three astronauts aboard Galactic 04 will be on a mission from different backgrounds and cultures, with a shared passion for space, exploration and adventure.’
Apart from the Pakistani woman, two other astronauts from the United States and the United Kingdom will also be included in this flight.
Another interesting thing is that the Virgin Galactic crew includes the name of pilot Jameel Janjua. From the name, they seem to be Pakistani, but their LinkedIn profile He has written French, the only language he knows. He has been a fighter pilot in the past.
Virgin Galactic is an aerospace and space travel company, pioneering spaceflight for private individuals and researchers with its advanced spacecraft and space vehicles. It has developed a space flight system, designed to offer users a transformative experience through space travel.
Who is Namira Saleem?
According to the Overseas Pakistani Foundation website, Namira Saleem is a Pakistani explorer and artist born in Karachi. He holds a master’s degree in international affairs from Columbia University.
Namira Salim, a resident of Monaco, an independent country in southern France, was officially recognized as the ‘first Pakistani astronaut’ by the Government of Pakistan in 2006.
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In 2007, Namira served as an honorary tourism ambassador for Pakistan. She is the first Pakistani to reach the North Pole in April 2007 and the South Pole in January 2008.
She also holds the distinction of being the first Asian and the first Pakistani to skydive on Mount Everest during the historic First Everest Skydive in 2008. He was also awarded the Tagha Imtiaz in 2011.
Namira Saleem belongs to Pakistan. After getting his primary education i.e. up to intermediate in Pakistan, he did his bachelors from Boston University in America and then his masters from Columbia University.
In an interview given to Independent Urdu in 2019, he said that he had a passion for going to space since childhood, but while living in Monaco, he learned that a private spaceship was being built and through it, space travel. A new era is starting, which is being called space tourism or ‘space tourism’, so they joined it.
She said that when Richard Branson, the owner of Virgin Group, ‘saw me, he presented me to the world as the first Asian woman to go into space.’
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Interview with Namira Saleem: The First Pakistani Astronaut Set to Fly on Virgin Galactic
Editor: Today, we are thrilled to speak with Namira Saleem, a pioneer not just for Pakistan but for the entire region. Namira is set to become the first Pakistani astronaut on Virgin Galactic’s upcoming ‘Galactic 04’ flight on October 5, 2023. Namira, welcome!
Namira Saleem: Thank you for having me! It’s an honor to be here.
Editor: First off, how does it feel to be part of this historic mission?
Namira Saleem: It feels surreal! I have dreamed of this moment for so long. Being able to represent Pakistan in space and raise our national flag is both a personal achievement and a message of inspiration for many.
Editor: You were recognized as the first Pakistani astronaut back in 2006. How does this flight compare, in terms of your journey and experiences, to when you first set out on this path?
Namira Saleem: This journey is the culmination of years of work, dedication, and passion. While the recognition in 2006 was a significant milestone, preparing for this actual flight has been a completely different challenge and experience. I have grown as an individual and a professional, and I’m excited to share this journey with others.
Editor: Virgin Galactic’s mission is to create safe space travel for everyone. What are your thoughts on commercial space travel?
Namira Saleem: I believe commercial space travel is the future. It opens doors for more people to experience the wonders of space and fuels our curiosity for exploration. It’s thrilling to be part of this shift in how we perceive space travel and exploration.
Editor: You’re part of a diverse crew on this flight. How does it feel to represent Pakistan alongside astronauts from the U.S. and the U.K.?
Namira Saleem: It’s a privilege to share this unique experience with astronauts from different backgrounds. Our shared passion for exploration transcends borders, and I’m excited to connect with them and learn from their experiences. Together, we can inspire a global audience.
Editor: Can you tell us a bit about the preparation leading up to this flight?
Namira Saleem: Absolutely. The preparation has been rigorous. It includes physical training, understanding the spacecraft’s systems, and learning about the unique challenges of space. Every aspect is designed to ensure our safety and maximize the experience. It’s been an incredible learning curve.
Editor: Lastly, what message do you have for aspiring astronauts and adventurers, especially young people in Pakistan?
Namira Saleem: Dream big and believe in yourself! Whether it’s space, science, art, or any other field, there are no limits. If you have a passion, pursue it relentlessly. I hope my journey inspires others to reach for the stars in their unique ways.
Editor: Thank you, Namira, for sharing your incredible journey with us. We wish you all the best on your flight!
Namira Saleem: Thank you! I’m looking forward to it and hope to make everyone proud.
E travel. The potential for research, tourism, and even a greater understanding of our planet is immense.
Editor: Your journey has involved some incredible achievements, including being the first Pakistani to reach both the North and South Poles, as well as skydiving from Mount Everest. How do these experiences prepare you for space travel?
Namira Saleem: Every adventure teaches you something valuable. The extreme conditions I faced during those expeditions required resilience, adaptability, and a strong mindset—attributes that are equally important for space travel. Each experience has built my confidence and solidified my passion for exploration.
Editor: As you prepare for your upcoming flight, what message do you hope to convey to young girls and aspiring astronauts from Pakistan and around the world?
Namira Saleem: My message is simple: Dare to dream big and never shy away from seeking the impossible. Whether it’s space, science, or any field of your interest, perseverance matters. If I can break these barriers, so can you!
Editor: Thank you, Namira. We’re excited to follow your journey into space and can’t wait to see you make history on October 5th!
Namira Saleem: Thank you for the support! I’m looking forward to representing Pakistan and showcasing the spirit of exploration.
Editor: Best of luck on your mission, Namira!
