Borderless Labs Inc (BLINC) has honored Namira Salim, the First Pakistani Astronaut, with a scholarship to advance her training as an orbital scientist Astronaut, paving the way for her continued journey in space exploration.
“By collaborating with Borderless Labs Inc. (BLINC), Namira Salim embarks on an ambitious path, training at prestigious US institutions such as the International Institute of Astronautical Sciences (IIAS),” stated Mac Malkawi, the Founder, CEO, and President of BLINC.
“I will undergo intensive training as a scientist Astronaut, tailored to prepare me for upcoming private orbital missions around Earth and beyond, as the commercialization of space makes the final frontier Accessible to All,” shared Namira Salim, who will also receive training for Extra Vehicular Activity (EVA or spacewalks) and survival in Lunar and Martian gravity.
As per the press release, Namira Salim, a Pakistani polar explorer and artist, made history as the First Pakistani Astronaut and a trailblazing astronaut with Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic on October 6, 2023.
Namira Salim holds the distinction of being the first Pakistani to reach both the North and South Poles, along with being the first Asian to skydive (tandem) from Mount Everest during the First Everest Skydive in 2008.
Beyond her achievements in spaceflight and polar exploration, Namira is a passionate advocate for Space Diplomacy through her non-profit organization, Space Trust. She also actively promotes STEM/STEAM Education to foster capacity building in developing nations.
“My upcoming training aims to inspire space enthusiasts and propel future Astronauts on private missions, particularly from Pakistan and South Asia,” expressed Namira Salim.
“Namira Salim stands as a beacon for the next generation of space leaders, urging the boundaries of human spaceflight to new heights, not only in Pakistan but also in developing and emerging space nations,” remarked Mac Malkawi.
“Her steadfast dedication to human space exploration will pave the way for future Pakistani astronauts to venture into space through the collaborative efforts between BLINC and Space Trust,” he added.
Borderless Labs Inc (BLINC) plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap by bringing Space and STEAM fields to untapped markets through investments, media, and inclusion.
For further details and partnership opportunities, please reach out to Mac Malkawi, Founder CEO & President of Borderless Labs Inc (BLINC).