Space Research Team Adds Canadian Doctor to Virgin Galactic Crew

Dr. Shawna Pandya: Fulfilling Her Dream of Space Travel

Background and Career Path

Dr. Shawna Pandya, a Brandon, Man.-born, Edmonton-raised physician and space scientist, is set to embark on a journey to space with Virgin Galactic. Having earned a degree in neuroscience from the University of Alberta and a Masters at the International Space University in France, Pandya has a diverse educational background. She has also worked as a medical advisor to various space, medical, and technology companies.

Partnership with Virgin Galactic and IIAS

The upcoming mission with Virgin Galactic is a collaborative effort with the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences (IIAS), where Pandya serves as the space medicine director. This partnership aims to leverage space and microgravity as a research laboratory, particularly through commercial spaceflight opportunities.

Implications for Female Astronauts and Researchers

Pandya’s involvement in this mission marks a significant achievement as the first named female commercial astronaut from Canada. With only a small percentage of female astronauts worldwide, this mission aims to pave the way for more women in the field of space exploration. Additionally, the mission focuses on conducting scientific experiments in microgravity to advance medical technologies and life-support systems.

Impact of Commercial Spaceflight

As commercial spaceflight becomes more accessible, Pandya believes that space exploration should be inclusive of diverse professionals, including engineers, physicians, mission operation leads, storytellers, artists, and entrepreneurs. She envisions a future where space is open to all, fostering creativity, innovation, and human exploration on a global scale.



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