Helen Sharman

Helen Sharman is the first British astronaut, the first Western European woman in space, and the first woman to visit the Mir space station. Her historic mission in 1991 marked a milestone in British space exploration and continues to inspire generations interested in science and technology. A trained chemist, she was selected from over 13,000 applicants for Project Juno, having heard about the opportunity by chance on the car radio. Calm, capable and a team player, Helen was exactly the candidate the programme needed. Helen’s story combines scientific rigour, human resilience and a spirit of exploration. She underwent 18 months of intensive training in Russia, including learning the language, enduring physical conditioning for life in microgravity, and preparing for various possible emergencies. Her mission involved conducting various scientific experiments and outreach activities from orbit, including operating radio links with British schoolchildren. She continues to advocate for the role of science in shaping our understanding of the world and improving lives on Earth. Following her spaceflight, Helen transitioned into a career as a science communicator and educator. She has received several prestigious honours, including an OBE and later a CMG for her services to science and technology outreach. She has worked in research and leadership roles at institutions such as the National Physical Laboratory and Imperial College London. Currently, she serves as President of the Institute of Science and Technology. Helen remains closely involved with public engagement around space and science. She hosts the Zero Pressure podcast and co-hosts Discover Your Inner Astronaut for Audible. Her spacesuit is on display at the Science Museum, and schools across the UK have named buildings in her honour. Through her work, she encourages curiosity, collaboration and ambition in science.