Germany’s First Woman Astronaut Blasts Off on Historic SpaceX Mission
Rabea Rogge made history on Monday by becoming the first woman from Germany to travel to space. Her journey began aboard a SpaceX mission that follows a new path around Earth, flying from pole to pole—an orbit never before used by humans.
Rogge, a robotics and polar science expert, is the first German in space since 1978. That year, Sigmund Jaehn flew on a Soviet space mission. Rogge’s launch marks a new milestone for Germany in space exploration.
A Mission That Inspires Change
Before her selection, Rogge admitted she had doubts. “At first, I couldn’t believe it,” she said in an interview. “I was very critical and had a lot of respect for the challenge. But after seeing the level of effort SpaceX puts into training and preparation, my fears faded.”
She believes space is becoming more open and inclusive. “We are in a time of change,” she said. “I’m proud to be part of this moment.”
Rogge wants to be seen as more than just the first German woman in space. Still, she hopes to inspire girls and young women who dream of science careers. “In technical fields, women often need to prove themselves more. I hope my journey shows others what’s possible,” she added.
Science at the Core of the Journey
Rogge and her crew are on a three to five-day mission. During their time in space, they will conduct 22 experiments. Most of these will focus on how space travel affects the human body, especially under microgravity.
This mission is SpaceX’s sixth involving private astronauts. It highlights the company’s growing influence in the space industry. The flight adds to SpaceX’s record of innovation and leadership in human spaceflight.
A Company with Rising Influence
The mission also comes as Elon Musk, SpaceX’s CEO, gains political sway. Musk, now an adviser to US President Donald Trump, has become a powerful figure in shaping US policy decisions. His role adds weight to SpaceX’s growing reach in both technology and global affairs.
with inputs from Reuters
