Astrophysicist Dr Rosemary Coogan, Northern Ireland’s first astronaut, shared her insights on the evolving space sector with BBC News NI. She emphasized the increasing involvement of commercial partners in the industry, marking a significant shift in the field. Dr Coogan, who completed basic training with the European Space Agency last year, is currently in the US undergoing intensive pre-assignment training and spacewalk training.
During her interview, Dr Coogan highlighted the challenges and excitement of spacewalk training, describing it as physically demanding work that primarily involves upper arm strength. As she prepares for her mission, she reflected on the unique constraints of working in a spacesuit underwater compared to diving, emphasizing the importance of safety considerations in both environments. Despite the rigorous training, she expressed her love for the experience and the opportunity to undertake such groundbreaking work.
The recent advancements in space exploration, such as the first commercial spacecraft landing on the Moon and SpaceX’s historic mission featuring the first commercial spacewalk, have ignited fresh possibilities in the industry. Dr Coogan emphasized the significant changes happening in the space sector, emphasizing the need for a balance between government regulation and commercial innovation. She acknowledged the benefits of commercial partnerships, especially in facilitating missions to the International Space Station using commercial vehicles.
Dr Coogan underscored the importance of conducting scientific research in space for the benefit of Earth, highlighting the irreplaceable nature of experiments conducted in microgravity environments. She emphasized the need to protect both the space environment and Earth’s environment as space exploration expands. Addressing the issue of space debris and satellite end-of-life planning, she emphasized the importance of responsible practices to safeguard space assets and avoid potential hazards. Dr Coogan’s commitment to sharing her journey and inspiring the next generation of scientists was evident as she prepared to speak at the Northern Ireland Science Festival and engage with young minds eager to explore the wonders of space
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