The fascination with space has always been an integral part of humanity’s collective imagination. Throughout history, space exploration has evolved from an aspirational dream to a tangible reality. While the UK Space Agency is a relatively young player in the space industry, it has been making significant strides towards contributing to this awe-inspiring domain. The agency’s endeavours have been boosted by the likes of European Space Agency (ESA) reserve astronaut Meganne Christian, who recently assumed the role of Exploration Commercialization Lead at the UK Space Agency.
Recently, the Farnborough International News Network (FINN) sat down with Christian to talk about her career to date.
Meganne Christian’s Journey
Meganne Christian’s path to the UK Space Agency is a remarkable story that traverses continents and embraces diverse scientific disciplines. Born in the UK, she grew up in Australia, where she developed a keen interest in space, despite the absence of a national space agency at the time. Driven by a passion for science, Christian pursued a Bachelor’s degree in engineering and industrial chemistry before embarking on a Ph.D. focused on hydrogen storage for fuel cell vehicles using nanomaterials.
Her thirst for knowledge and the pursuit of challenges led her to Bologna, Italy, where she embarked on a postdoctoral position at the National Research Council. What was initially intended to be a one-to-two-year stay turned into a nine-year adventure. During her time in Italy, she even spent a year in Antarctica conducting climate change research.
From Antarctica to Space
Christian’s transformative experience in Antarctica played a pivotal role in shaping her desire to become an astronaut. At the isolated Concordia station, where extreme conditions tested her limits and reliance on her team members was critical, she also had the opportunity to participate in ESA’s biomedical tests simulating aspects of long-term missions to Mars.
“The sense of adventure I felt in Antarctica sparked the question of what the next adventure could be, and space exploration seemed like the natural progression,” said Christian.
Breaking Barriers as a Female in STEM
Despite being in a male-dominated field, Christian never felt restricted due to her gender during her schooling. However, she acknowledges the underrepresentation of women in certain STEM disciplines, like engineering and mathematics. In her extension math class during high school, she was the sole female student. Nevertheless, she pursued her passion for science, and with the support of her father, a scientist himself, she entered the field of engineering.
Christian emphasizes the importance of inspiring the next generation, particularly young girls, to pursue STEM careers. As part of her role in the UK Space Agency, she actively engages in outreach activities, visiting schools and events to promote space exploration and STEM fields, serving as a role model for aspiring scientists and astronauts.
The Future of Space Commercialization
Christian’s current focus at the UK Space Agency is exploration commercialization, a crucial aspect of space travel in the coming years. She highlights that after 2030, the International Space Station will be decommissioned, prompting the exploration of new possibilities. As the space landscape evolves, there is a growing interest in commercial space stations and space tourism.
“Commercial space stations hold the potential for significant advancements in biomedicine, manufacturing, and various industries. Additionally, space tourism can contribute to the overview effect, where people gain a renewed perspective on protecting our planet,” said Christian.
Sustainable Space Exploration
As space commercialization gains momentum, Christian emphasizes the importance of maintaining sustainability and zero-carbon goals. While space has historically inspired environmental consciousness through iconic images like Earthrise, she urges caution regarding the potential environmental impacts of space exploration, such as space debris.
“We must strike a balance between pushing the boundaries of space exploration and preserving the wellbeing of our planet. Tourism’s transformative effect on people’s appreciation of Earth can be an asset if managed responsibly,” she affirmed.
Meganne Christian’s journey from the UK to Australia, Italy, and Antarctica exemplifies the spirit of exploration that drives the space tech industry. As an ESA reserve astronaut and Exploration Commercialization Lead at the UK Space Agency, she embodies the spirit of adventure and determination needed to push the frontiers of human knowledge. Alongside the UK Space Agency, she aspires to inspire the next generation of space enthusiasts, creating a future where space exploration coexists harmoniously with sustainability and the betterment of our planet. As the space industry continues to evolve, Meganne Christian remains an inspiring figure and a beacon of hope for those who dare to reach for the stars.
SOURCE: Farnborough International News Network (FINN)
Featured image: Meganne Christian. Credit UK Space Agency
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