Breaking barriers and reaching for the stars, Namira Salim achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Pakistani to venture into space on board Virgin Galactic’s VSS Unity spaceplane. This momentous journey took place on a sub-orbital trajectory, offering Salim and her fellow passengers a taste of “weightlessness” and an awe-inspiring view of Earth’s curvature against the backdrop of outer space.
Main character vibes. Get to know the #Galactic04 astronauts who embarked on their space journey today → https://t.co/p3En0M0hr5 pic.twitter.com/zceqnZIbnY
— Virgin Galactic (@virgingalactic) October 6, 2023
Namira Salim Trailblazing Journey To Space
Namira Salim's journey to space marks a momentous achievement for both Pakistan and herself. As a part of Virgin Galactic's Galactic 04 mission in 2023, Salim realized a dream she had nurtured for almost two decades; she was among the pioneering individuals who purchased a ticket for Virgin Galactic's spaceflight back in 2006, initially costing $200,000, but her journey's price tag has since risen to $450,000.
???????? Greetings from space, #Galactic04! Big congratulations to 017, 018, and 019. pic.twitter.com/RTlW6tRGKx
— Virgin Galactic (@virgingalactic) October 6, 2023
Notably, Salim's spaceflight not only made her the first Pakistani to reach space but also established her as the first female Pakistani and UAE resident to undertake this cosmic adventure; her dedication to this endeavor and her unwavering commitment to space exploration has set a remarkable precedent for women in Pakistan and beyond.
International Recognition for Pakistani Space Adventurer
As Namira Salim took her historic space journey, she received accolades and well-wishes from various quarters. Anwaar ul Haq Kakar, the caretaker Prime Minister of Pakistan, expressed his pride and support for her in a heartfelt message, acknowledging the contributions of Pakistani women in diverse fields. To which, Namira replied; "Proud to fly the #national flag high in #space Insha’Allah on 6th October 2023"
Good Luck Namira Salim @namirasalim.
I wish you success when you’re ready to make history on 06 October by becoming the 1st ???????? woman to travel to space in the #Galactic04
By proving their mettle as trailblazers in multiple fields, ???????? women are making the whole nation proud— Anwaar ul Haq Kakar (@anwaar_kakar) October 4, 2023
Thank you @anwaar_kakar Honorable Prime Minister of Pakistan for congratulating me as #FirstPakistaniAstroaut and first woman to go to #space from Pakistan. Proud to fly the #national flag high in #space Insha’Allah on 6th October 2023 @virgingalactic #Galactic04. pic.twitter.com/LB49RYqhkn
— Namira Salim (@namirasalim) October 4, 2023
Salim's previous expeditions to the North Pole in 2007 and the South Pole in 2008 demonstrated her adventurous spirit and prepared her for this extraordinary space voyage. As the founder and chairperson of the nonprofit Space Trust, Salim continues to advocate for peaceful and inclusive space exploration, leaving an indelible mark on the global space community.
Also read: Teen Genius Kairan Quazi Set to Join SpaceX Making History at 14
