Following the triumphant space voyage of an Antiguan mother-daughter duo, Keisha Schahaff and Anastasia Mayers, last Thursday, Virgin Galactic’s founder, Sir Richard Branson, foresees a rise in astronauts hailing from the Caribbean.
According to media reports, Branson underscored that physical disabilities would not impede aspirations of space travel.
He indicated that this was illustrated when former Olympian Jon Goodwin, who battles Parkinson’s disease, was among the trio of private travelers on the recent flight.
Virgin Galactic’s milestones at Spaceport America
Virgin Galactic marked a new milestone this month, launching its first private astronaut mission and second commercial spaceflight from its Spaceport America, New Mexico location.
The VSS Unity soared with three private passengers: Keisha Schahaff, 46, her daughter Anastasia Mayers, 18, and Jon Goodwin, 80, complemented by a team of three crew members.
Making history: The Caribbean’s first mother-daughter space duo
Notably, Schahaff and Mayers have not only etched their names as the premier Antiguans to journey to space but have also made history as the first mother-daughter pair from the Caribbean to achieve this feat.
Read more on Caribbean astronauts
- First Caribbean women in space: Antigua’s mother-daughter duo makes history
- Astronaut takes first flight to space, hails Jamaican mother for sacrifices
To celebrate the monumental occasion, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority hosted two public watch parties. The gesture ensured that the entire nation could partake in the euphoria and cheer on their pioneering country women.
Charles Fernandez, the Tourism Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, expressed the nation’s pride and admiration for the duo, noting their endeavor stands as a testament to the adventurous spirit of Antigua and Barbuda.
He emphasized that their journey would inspire countless individuals who harbor dreams of space travel. Moreover, it reflects the resilience and ambition of the Antiguans and Barbudans who consistently challenge and overcome limitations.
