A young Derry man is about to take one small step on his journey to becoming one of Ireland’s first astronauts. Space mad Christian Kelly (18) is heading to Stanford University in California to begin a degree in aerospace engineering in its prestigious NASA programme. From the Culmore Road area, Christian said initially he would be studying maths, physics and engineering and Russian, the latter in preparation, hopefully, for a future assignment to the International Space Station. To date, no Irish person has been to space. Dr Norah Patten from Co Mayo was this year selected to be part of a research mission on Virgin Galactic’s new commercial spacecraft, which is due to begin operating in 2026. Speaking to The Irish News, the former St Columb’s College pupils, said he had dreamed about becoming an astronaut, and maybe even voyaging to Mars, since the age of seven.

A Lifelong Passion for Space Exploration

“I really enjoy maths and physics, which dictate the nature of the universe and the unknown and I have always been curious about the vastness of space,” he said. “At post-primary school, my skill and interest in maths just accelerated. I studied physics, chemistry, mathematics and further mathematics for A-level, and although they were difficult and time-consuming and complex subjects, I really enjoyed them. They are my passion. They are the pathway to becoming an astronaut.” The letter awarding Mr Kelly a four-year scholarship to study at Stanford referenced his experience as a volunteer marine conservationist in Croatia last summer.

Protecting Our Planet and Beyond

“I volunteered with International Volunteering Headquarters. It was an amazing experience. I scuba dived in various littered sites and extracted any foreign materials or objects,” said Mr Kelly, who also got his scuba-diving licence. “That experience demonstrated to me how important it is to protect our planet, and in the future, new worlds which we might call home.”

Representing Derry and Ireland

Mr Kelly said his father Albert and mother Leona have been “massively supportive”. “I am also going to the US as a Derry man who is very proudly representing my country, city and school. My aspiration is to contribute to human space-exploration and play a role in the advancement of humanity. My goal is to become one of the first Irish astronauts, allowing me to inspire the next generation, especially those in Ireland and other small nations. Whatever it takes, my determination will drive me to achieve this goal. I am really looking forward to the journey towards this goal as I will be studying the one component of the universe which brings it all together.”

A Giant Leap for Irish Space Exploration

Christian Kelly’s journey to Stanford University is a testament to his passion, dedication, and the importance of pursuing one's dreams. He is an inspiration for aspiring astronauts and young people in Ireland who dream of reaching for the stars. His ambition to become Ireland's first astronaut could pave the way for future generations of Irish space explorers. As Christian embarks on this exciting chapter in his life, he carries with him the hopes and aspirations of a nation eager to witness its own contributions to the exploration of the cosmos. The journey to becoming an astronaut is long and challenging, but Christian's unwavering determination and the support of his family and community suggest that he has the potential to achieve his audacious goal and make history as Ireland’s first astronaut.

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