Dubai-based Pakistan’s first astronaut Namira Salim set for space voyage

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The first Pakistani astronaut, Namira Salim, is all set to commence her space journey this year as she has already clinched the position of Astronaut No.6, thanks to Sir Richard Robinson, and anticipation is high that her forthcoming space mission will enchant a wide-ranging audience.

On Nov.29, 2022, the Founder Astronaut of Virgin Galactic designated her seat, and her first chance for the journey will be facilitated by Astronaut 019, marking the first Pakistani to launch into space.

Virgin Galactic Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: SPCE) has officially disclosed that the Galactic 04 flight window is set to commence on Oct.5, 2023.

The Galactic 04 mission features three private astronauts who contribute diverse backgrounds and cultures to the venture, united by their shared enthusiasm for space, exploration, and adventure.

One of the astronauts, designated as Astronaut 017, hails from the United States, while another, Astronaut 018, comes from the United Kingdom.

Lastly, Astronaut 019 represents Pakistan in this remarkable mission.

Belonging to a Pakistani family settled in Southern France Namira Salim is the first Pakistani to travel into space.

She has officially been recognised as the “First Pakistani Astronaut” by the government of Pakistan in 2006.

In 2007, Namira Salim served as Honorary Ambassador of Tourism for Pakistan, appointed by the Ministry of Tourism.

She is the first Pakistani to have reached the North Pole in April 2007 and the South Pole in January 2008.

She also holds the distinction of being the first Asian and first Pakistani to skydive over Mount Everest during the historic First Everest Skydives 2008.

She is also a peace activist and was conferred with Tamgha-e-Imtiaz in 2011.

The President of Pakistan conferred Namira Saleem with one of the country’s highest civil decoration Tamgha-e-Imtiaz (Medal of Excellence).

She was awarded the Power 100 Trailblazer Award by Pakistan Power 100, in London in September 2013 for her efforts to promote international peace and harmony.

Namira Salim also had the distinction of being placed on the Pakistan Power 100’s “Women Power 100.”