Geologist and former NASA astronaut, Kathy Sullivan who made history by becoming the first American woman to walk in space, will take centre stage at this year’s virtual STEMFest in Space festival.

The event, which will be held on Thursday, October 8, will give schools, colleges and community groups the opportunity to learn about the many wonders of space and to hear first-hand from astronauts and inspirational speakers from the international space sector.

On October 11, 1984, Kathy made history when she was the first American woman to walk in space. She was a crew member of three Space Shuttle missions and has spent a total of 532 hours in space.

Dr Sullivan made history again in June this year when she became only the eighth person and first woman to travel seven miles to the deepest depths of the ocean.

The Northern Echo:

After leaving NASA in 1993, Kathy Sullivan went on to serve as chief scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Dr Sullivan will join a host of other speakers including astronauts and astronomers to talk to children.

She said: “I look forward to sharing the challenges, wonders and personal impressions of deep sea and outer space exploration with the STEMFest audience.”

Schools and colleges must pre-register for this event. Tickets are free and can be booked via Eventbrite website.

Claire Willis, STEM Education Relationship Manager at RTC North, based in Sunderland, is organising the event. She said, “We are delighted Dr Kathy Sullivan has agreed to participate in our event. She is a huge inspiration to all women across the world and I am sure our younger generation will be interested to hear about her time in space and travelling to the deepest part of the earth’s seabed.

“STEMFest in Space will combine classroom and hands-on learning in an exciting, fun-packed day, showcasing the many wonders of space. It is a perfect opportunity to learn about careers within the space sector and a chance to meet real astronauts and inspirational speakers.”