We take off 2021

We want to advance science...…

... because so far, it has mostly been men who benefit from medical research in space. Aboard the ISS, researchers conduct medical tests on themselves to gain critical knowledge for healthcare on the ground. German scientists on the ISS have so far been exclusively male, which means men benefit a great deal more from medical research on orbit. After all, there are significant differences between the bodies of men and women, among others relating to visual organs, the vestibular system, bones and of course hormones. To date, Germany does not have any first-hand research data on the behaviour of the female body, gained by medical self-experiments in space – which is surprising given the fact that medical research in space could have significant benefits for millions of women on Earth.


We are training the first female German astronaut...

... to be able to achieve this goal and further science. All of our training activities are financed by donations and voluntary financial contributions – unlike our astronaut’s male predecessors, the government has not yet decided to support us. As of today, Insa and Suzanna have almost completed base-level training, consisting of parabolic flights, diver certifications and pilot’s licenses, all of which they have been doing alongside full-time jobs as scientists. Their licenses have to be maintained with regular diving and flying practise. Additionally, they also have to go through theoretical training regarding functions and operating principles of the International Space Station. The next step will be mission-specific training, which will prepare both astronauts for their mission aboard the ISS science module.


We create role models...

... because there are still too few women working in STEM! By sending the first female German astronaut to space, we want to encourage girls to find their own way. And for that, they need strong role models. Although space should not know a gender bias, the actual numbers paint a clear picture. But when you start looking into the reasons why fewer women go to space than men, there is one simple answer: to become an astronaut, you need certain knowledge which is usually based on STEM subjects. There are still too few women in STEM jobs, which in turn explains why many more men apply to become astronauts. Unfortunately, a large number of young girls is still convinced that STEM is only for boys. In workshops and talks at schools we want to end those clichés and encourage girls by showing them new paths and opportunities.

Help us make a difference. Support our project and become part of our mission to send the first German woman to space.