Breaking Barriers and Reaching for the Stars: Saudi Arabia’s Historic Space Mission with a Woman and Fighter Pilot
Saudi Arabia’s First Space Mission: Rayyanah Barnawi and Ali Al-Qarni Make History
Cape Canaveral: A historic moment awaits as Saudi Arabia’s first-ever space mission is set to launch from Florida’s Kennedy Space Center. Organized by Axiom Space, the private mission to the International Space Station (ISS) will carry two Saudi astronauts, Rayyanah Barnawi and Ali Al-Qarni.
Rayyanah Barnawi, a breast cancer researcher, will make history as the first Saudi woman to voyage into space. Joining her is Ali Al-Qarni, a fighter pilot. The Ax-2 crew, including former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson and businessman John Shoffner, will embark on a 10-day journey aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
The mission signifies a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia, as the kingdom continues its efforts to revamp its ultraconservative image. The Saudi Space Commission, established in 2018, aims to propel the country’s space exploration endeavors.
During their time on the ISS, the team will conduct approximately 20 experiments, including studying the behavior of stem cells in zero gravity. Their presence on the ISS will join the ranks of other astronauts, including the first Arab national to go on a spacewalk, Sultan al-Neyadi.
This mission marks the second partnership between Axiom Space and ISS-key holder NASA. Axiom Space’s long-term vision includes constructing its own space station, with plans to launch the first module in 2025.
As Saudi Arabia embarks on this groundbreaking space mission, it demonstrates the country’s determination to explore new frontiers and inspire future generations in the field of space exploration.
