Abigail Harrison, born on November 6, 1997 in Minnesota, had always been fascinated by space and exploration from a young age. Growing up in Minnesota, she was surrounded by a rich history of astronauts and space research, which further fueled her passion for the stars. It was in the fifth grade when her interest in the field truly took flight, as she became a part of the Minnesota Public School GEMS program, which focused on encouraging girls in engineering, math, and science.
After graduating high school, Abigail was accepted to Wellesley College, following in the footsteps of former astronaut Pamela Melroy. This academic path would prove to be instrumental in her pursuit of becoming an astronaut. During her time at college, Abigail excelled in her studies and gained valuable knowledge in various scientific fields that would later benefit her in her astronaut training.
Abigail's big break came when she was selected to serve as Luca Parmitano's Earth Liaison during his 2013 trip on the Soyuz-TMA-09M. This opportunity allowed her to work closely with a seasoned astronaut and gain valuable insights into the world of space travel. Meeting her mentor, Luca Parmitano, at an airport was a turning point in her career, as she learned from his experiences and guidance.
As an aspiring astronaut, Abigail continued to hone her skills and knowledge in the field of space exploration. Her passion for space science and dedication to her goals set her apart from others in the industry, paving the way for a successful career in the field.
Today, Abigail Harrison continues to inspire young girls and boys to pursue their dreams of reaching for the stars. Her journey from a young girl with a dream to a budding astronaut serves as a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and perseverance in achieving one's goals.