Aisha Bowe : from community college to rocket scientist on all-female space flight

Aisha Bowe, a former NASA rocket scientist and tech company founder, is set to make history as the first Bahamian-American to travel to space when she joins an all-female Blue Origin crew launching on April 14.

Aisha Bowe is set to make history

Bowe, 38, appeared on “CBS Mornings” to discuss how she’s preparing for the historic mission alongside Gayle King, who will also be part of the crew.

“I have been preparing for this moment my entire life,” Bowe told King during the interview. “I mean, I started my career thinking I was allergic to math. And here I’m sitting here, and I’m just like, we are going to space.”

In addition to Bowe and King, the revolutionary mission features a group of women that includes civil rights activist Amanda Nguyen, philanthropist Lauren Sánchez, musician Katy Perry, and film producer Kerianne Flynn.

“This crew represents the best in the future of humanity,” Bowe said. “It’s really space for the benefit of Earth.”

From community college to rocket science

A  native of Michigan, Bowe also discussed how she overcame being discouraged from pursuing a career in STEM, beating the odds. She was even told she should pursue a career in cosmetology instead of aerospace engineering.

“I was told I couldn’t, I wouldn’t, I shouldn’t, and I can’t, and I did,” said Bowe. “I went from community college to studying aerospace at the University of Michigan to working at NASA for six years.”

Bowe says what she is most excited about the forthcoming journey is the impact on future generations.

“I did it because I saw all of you reach for the sky, and I knew it could, too,” Bowe said.

Bowe’s preparation has included experiencing G-forces to simulate the physical demands of spaceflight. She made light that her biggest concern for the actual flight is streaking makeup through the tears of excitement.

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