Dr. Norah Patten

Speakers at Reliability Ireland 2025/Dr Norah Patten

Dr. Norah Patten has been pursuing her dream of becoming Ireland’s first astronaut since age 11, inspired by a childhood visit to NASA. That dream is now within reach, as Virgin Galactic announced she will join a research flight with the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences (IIAS), set to launch on the Delta spaceships during their first year of commercial service.

A passionate communicator, Norah uses her journey to inspire audiences of all ages to aim high. Her warmth and enthusiasm shine through in national TV and radio appearances, keynote speeches, and her award-winning children’s book, Shooting for the Stars.

Norah has extensive experience in space research, including microgravity flights, spacesuit testing, and high-g simulations. She holds a PhD in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Limerick, has industrial experience with Boeing and Bell Labs, and is a faculty member at the International Space University. She also led Ireland’s first student experiment launch to the International Space Station in 2014 through her project, The Only Way is Up.