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

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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. She will join an all‑female Blue Origin crew launching on April 14.

Aisha Bowe prepares to make history

Bowe, 38, appeared on CBS Mornings to discuss her preparation for the mission with Gayle King, who will also join the crew.

“I have been preparing for this moment my entire life,” Bowe told King. “I started my career thinking I was allergic to math. And here I am saying, we are going to space.”

Moreover, the mission includes:

• Civil rights activist Amanda Nguyen
• Philanthropist Lauren Sánchez
• Musician Katy Perry
• 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 shared how she overcame discouragement while pursuing STEM. People even told her to choose cosmetology instead of aerospace engineering.

“I was told I couldn’t, I wouldn’t, I shouldn’t, and I can’t, and I did,” Bowe said.

“I went from community college to studying aerospace at the University of Michigan to working at NASA for six years.”

Furthermore, Bowe says she feels most excited about inspiring future generations.

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

Her preparation included experiencing G‑forces to simulate the physical demands of spaceflight. She joked that her biggest concern is streaking her makeup through tears of excitement.

Congratulations!