The remarkable Dr Norah Patten, aeronautical engineer and Science-Astronaut candidate speaks to Beaut about her journey to the stars.
Dr Norah Patten was 11 when she realised her ultimate dream in life was to be an astronaut. On a trip to Cleveland, her family visited NASA and it informed the direction of her entire life. This trip was the 'trigger' to a dream that is looking closer and closer like becoming a reality.
I often say to parents, it's so important to expose children to lots of different things because I'm the youngest of five and I was the only one to take an interest in space from this trip so you never really know what's going to be the 'trigger point.'
From that first NASA trip (she has been back there several times since), the Ballina, Co Mayo native had space in her sights. Every decision she made was connected to her space dream. She studied Aeronautical Engineering at the University of Limerick, eventually earning a PhD in Aerodynamics. Every move of her career, including a stint lecturing in UL and a role as Communications and Outreach Manager Irish Composites Centre is another foot on the rung towards the final frontier.
In 2010, she graduated from the International Space University's Space Studies Program; in 2015 she was elected as a faculty member. A fierce STEM advocate, she founded Planet Zenubar a product designed to stir interest in STEM in children. Her ambition and achievements make it hard to believe she's only 34 years old. She's the public face of space science in Ireland, making her an amazing role model; every child in Ireland should know her name. But, as a truly, genuinely ambitious person, she can be hard on herself, feeling like she "should be achieving more and doing more".
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Luckily, a very strong relationship keeps her doubts in check. The best advice she has been given was by her sister, and it's advice that all strong women should take.
You should really be as kind and compassionate to yourself as you are to your best friend.
Norah's passion for space and a career in space is infectious and she's all too happy to share her enthusiasm and recruit people to join her mission.
In terms of having a space career, there's never been a better time to get involved. The industry is like a flower that's just about to open, there's loads of opportunities. In terms of advice, find a mentor; find somebody who's going to be a positive influence who can give you guidance. Be mindful of people's time. If people are giving you time be thankful of that. And get out there and meet people.
Norah's astronautical dream is coming closer to being a reality. In 2017 she was chosen to participate at Project Possum, completing highly specialised training in simulated space environments. The next step really will bring her closer to the stars. You will want to keep a close eye on this incredible Irish woman proving that with hard work and determination, dreams really do come true.
