The US embassy in Doha has announced that former Nasa astronaut Dr Anna L Fisher will visit Qatar from October 11 to 13.
The physician who in 1984 became the first mother to travel to space, will be showing Qatar's youth the possibilities of space-related careers, and using lessons learned from space travel to combat climate change.
"Space exploration knows no boundaries. It's an honour to share my experiences and encourage the next generation of space enthusiasts in Qatar," said Dr Fisher, in a statement issued by the embassy Monday.
The US embassy’s charge d’affaires, Natalie Baker, said: "I invite all young Qataris interested in STEM careers, and anyone ready to be inspired by her incredible life story and scientific insights, to come meet Dr Fisher this week.” Dr Fisher's journey in Qatar kicks off with a presentation at the University of Doha for Science & Technology (UDST) on October 11 at 3pm. This public event aims to ignite the passion of the next generation of scientists, engineers, doctors, and astronauts.
Dr Salem Al-Naemi, president of UDST, said: “This visit is a momentous occasion for the University’s community, and we are pleased to extend the invitation to the public, encouraging everyone to be inspired by her pioneering journey. As an applied university, we join our voice with Dr Anna who is promoting careers in STEM fields and we believe her presence will serve as an inspiration for our students and instill in them the belief that sky is not the limit, it is only the beginning of their endless potential.”
On October 12 at 10.30am, Dr Fisher will share her remarkable story of becoming one of the first six women astronauts at Nasa, and the first mother in space. This discussion is open to the public at the Qatar National Library.
On October 13 at 5.30pm, Dr Fisher will join space scientist Dr Essam Heggy of the Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (Qeeri), and Qatari pilot and Nasa Space Camp graduate Capt. Mohamed al-Khater in a panel discussion at Expo 2023.
The "Exploring Space Technology for Climate Mitigation" discussion will be moderated by the Arab Youth Climate Movement Qatar (AYCMQ) at the Congress Centre in Expo’s Cultural Zone.