Astronaut Namira to be first Pakistan female to go on space expedition

Pakistan-origin first female astronaut Namira Salim is about to embark on a journey to space. Namira, who is based in Dubai, would begin her celestial expedition on October 5. It is to be noted that she hoisted Pakistan’s flag at the North Pole in 2007. Space tourism company, Virgin Galactic Holdings has declared that their Galactic 04 flight window would start its trip next month. 

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter,  Virgin Galactic Holdings wrote, " The 'Galactic 04' flight window opens on Thursday, October 5, 2023. This mission will be the 5th spaceflight in 5 months." 

The first Pakistani female to go into space!

Namira is also known for holding the position of Astronaut No. 6 after the Founder Astronaut of Virgin Galactic Richard Branson designated her a seat. Her journey to space would be facilitated by  Astronaut 019, reported Khaleej Times. The government of Pakistan officially acknowledged Namira as the first astronaut in the country in 2006. In the year 2007, she also served as honorary ambassador of tourism for Pakistan.  The achievements of the Dubai-based Namira continued as she became the first Pakistani to reach the North Pole in April 2007 and the South Pole in January 2008. 

Apart from that, the Pakistan-originated astronaut also holds the distinction of being the first Asian and first Pakistani to skydive over Mount Everest in 2008. In 2011, she was conferred with 'Tamgha-e-Imtiaz' (Medal of Excellence) in 2011. Meanwhile, Caretaker Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Solangi has hailed  Namira Salim's upcoming journey to space and called it a sign of Pakistan’s growing presence in space exploration and a major achievement for the nation. 

Further, she has briefed the minister about the preparations for her space journey and expressed her determination to raise the Pakistani flag in space. Terming Namira Saleem as a role model for all women, Solangi said the young generation can raise the name of Pakistan in the world in various fields of life. “This effort of Namira Saleem will highlight the positive image of Pakistan as a peace-loving and progressive country,” he asserted.  

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, Thrilled to take to the #stars with @trevorbmbagency and  @ronrosano aboard #Galactic04 with @virgingalactic. Inspiring #girls #women and #youth globally to reach for the stars. "