Exploring the Final Frontier
When Katherine Bennell-Pegg was a young girl growing up in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, her innate curiosity about space was palpable. She would gaze up at the stars, wondering about those unexplored planets.
Now, as Australia’s first astronaut, Katherine describes the moment she became the first Australian astronaut to wear the Australian flag as “definitely a pinch-me moment.”
“It’s such an honour to have the chance not only to train as an astronaut but to become the first Australian astronaut wearing the Australian flag on my shoulder,” says Katherine. “It’s definitely the culmination of a childhood dream.
“When I was a kid, I annoyed everyone around me with endless questions and never accepted simple answers,” she says. “I wanted to look under every rock, climb every tree, and when I was learning to surf, I wanted to know why one wave had more energy than another. I was curious about the world around me and loved adventure and being outdoors.”
After Katherine finished her degree in engineering, she had to move to Europe to embark on more academic studies and later astronaut training to fulfil her dream because at that time there was no pathway in Australia to become an astronaut.
But Katherine was nothing short of determined and made her own pathway to become an astronaut, which she describes as ‘the cherry of careers in STEM.”
Immersing herself in environments that mimicked space as closely as possible, Katherine experienced intense G-forces in a centrifuge, simulating the launches and re-entries of spacecraft. The thrill of these simulations was matched by the challenge of practicing zero gravity manoeuvres. She learned to use tools without spinning uncontrollably, performed CPR in unconventional positions, and even mastered the skill of walking with her feet while keeping her hands free. These exercises were not just for show; they were preparations for what could very well become her normal working environment.
Katherine explained how food tasted different in space due to fluid shifts in the body. This shift make astronauts feel a bit stuffy, like having a cold, which dulls their sense of taste. As a result, astronauts often crave spicy and salty foods, with Tabasco sauce being a particular favourite. The importance of enjoying meals in space could not be understated, explains Katherine, as it plays a crucial role in maintaining psychological health. So great efforts are made to ensure that the food is not only nutritious but also palatable.
In addition to the physical challenges of astronaut training, Katherine shared the broader mission of space exploration and why it is so relevant to all of us.
“While NASA’s current focus includes reaching Mars, the Moon remains an essential stepping stone,” she explains. “The proximity of the Moon allows for the testing of technologies necessary for Mars, such as refuelling rockets. Mars presents more significant technological challenges, including the monumental task of launching a rocket off the planet for a return trip.”
Katherine reflects: “It is often said that the first person to walk on Mars is currently in school, possibly even in an Australian classroom.”
But she’s also keen to emphasise the importance of space exploration, in particular how it addresses existential risks faced by humanity and says it is crucial in solving issues surrounding climate change. “It requires international cooperation and brings benefits to everyone,” adds Katherine. “For an emerging space nation like Australia, participation in space exploration is crucial. It not only opens economic opportunities for our industry but also contributes to global efforts.”
As a role model for many, Katherine’s message to young women dreaming big about their future careers is simple yet profound: pursue dreams that are worthwhile and enjoyable and stay focused.
“If you have a dream you think is worthwhile and enjoyable, pursue it without hesitation,” she says. “Don’t be concerned if you’re a minority or if you doubt your abilities. No one else will chase your dream for you. Give it your all to give yourself the best chance possible.” You can listen to the full podcast here.
For more stories on women in space, read our post on Vanessa E. Wyche, director of the Johnson Space Center for NASA.
