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Virgin Galactic Announces Galactic 02 Crew
Virgin Galactic is preparing to launch its send commercial mission, Galactic-02, and now we know who will be on board!
Mon Jul 17 2023Written by Zac Aubert
Virgin Galactic is preparing to launch its send commercial mission, Galactic 02, and now we know who will be on board!
The Galactic 02 crew will included 80-year-old Jon Goodwin, an early Virgin Galactic ticket holder and esteemed Olympian and Keisha Schahaff and Anastatia Mayers, a Caribbean mother-daughter duo who won their seats through a fundraising draw organized by the non-profit organization Space for Humanity.
"From becoming an Olympian to canoeing between the peaks of Annapurna, to winning a six day race in the Arctic Circle, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro (and cycling back down), I’ve always enjoyed rising to new challenges. When I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2014, I was determined not to let it stand in the way of living life to the fullest. And now for me to go to space with Parkinson’s is completely magical. I hope this inspires all others facing adversity and shows them that challenges don’t have to inhibit or stop them from pursuing their dreams" - Jon Goodwin
"When I was two years old, just looking up to the skies, I thought, ‘How can I get there?’ But, being from the Caribbean, I didn’t see how something like this would be possible. The fact that I am here, the first to travel to space from Antigua, shows that space really is becoming more accessible. I know I will be changed by my experience, and I hope I will be able to share that energy and inspire the people around me – in my role as a life coach, a mother, and as an ambassador for our beautiful planet" - Keisha Schahaff
Jon, Keisha, and Anastatia will be accompanied by Beth Moses, Virgin Galactic's 2nd Astronaut and Chief Astronaut Instructor.
With less than 700 people having traveled to space to date, This diverse and dynamic crew highlights Virgin Galactic's mission to break down the barriers that once hindered individuals from becoming astronauts.
Since its inception, Virgin Galactic has worked tirelessly to foster a Future Astronaut community, comprising over 800 individuals from more than 60 different nations. This diverse group serves as a testament to the company's commitment to embracing individuals from all walks of life and opening the doors to space exploration for everyone.
Before Virgin Galactic launches it will be carried up to approx. 40,000' by VMS Eve, aka the mothership. VMS Eve will be commanded by Nicola Pecile, and piloted by Mike Masucci.
After VSS Eve deploys from VMS Eve it will be commanded by CJ Sturckow and piloted by Kelly Latimer.
Virgin Galactic is currently targeting August 10th, for the launch of Galactic 02.
Join us LIVE on The Launch Pad Youtube channel for full launch day coverage and commentary.
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