Norah’s extensive research experience includes multiple microgravity research campaigns, commercial spacesuit testing and evaluation, and emergency egress operations. She was the PI of an experiment investigating the aerosolization of water droplets in microgravity, and tested a novel 3D bioprinter investigating novel solutions for skin grafts in weightlessness. Norah is an award-winning author and STEM advocate and is passionate about inspiring the next generation. In 2019, Norah released her children’s book called ‘Shooting for the Stars’ and it won the An Post Children’s Book of the Year, senior. She was awarded the IIAS Educator Award in 2018, was a recipient of the Emerging Space Leaders Grant and a Next Generation Plenary panellist at the International Astronautical Congress in 2015.
Through a partnership with NanoRacks and the Irish Composites Centre, Norah created and managed ‘The Only Way is Up’ project which launched Ireland’s first student experiment to the International Space Station in 2014, in which she was also the co-PI. Norah participated in the International Space University Space Studies Program in 2010, holds a PhD in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Limerick, participated in the Enterprise Ireland New Frontiers Program, and has industrial experience from The Boeing Company and Bell Labs Alcatel Lucent. Norah is a former global faculty member at the International Space University (ISU), and currently works at Réaltra Space Systems Engineering in Dublin, Ireland.
“We were thrilled to have Dr. Norah Patten, Ireland’s first astronaut, join us as our guest speaker at Coca Cola Ballina on March 18th to celebrate International Women’s Day. Her visit generated a lot of enthusiasm and excitement within our team. Norah’s talk was incredibly inspiring. She shared her remarkable career journey and insights with such passion that you could have heard a pin drop. Her story of determination, perseverance, and success deeply resonated with everyone. After her talk, Norah spent extra time with our team, kindly taking photos and signing autographs. This personal interaction made the experience even more special and left everyone feeling connected and motivated. Norah’s visit was a significant and memorable event for all of us at Coca Cola Ballina. Her words instilled a sense of limitless possibilities and emphasised the importance of determination and vision. We are extremely grateful for the opportunity to have learned from such an inspirational and distinguished figure.”
– David Irwin Manager, Communications Coca-Cola, 2025
“Norah’s story of exploration, growth mindset, and making dreams come true was a powerful highlight of our Think Global event at Google. Her journey from a childhood dream to the cusp of space resonated deeply, perfectly illustrating how perseverance and a willingness to learn can turn audacious goals into reality. She didn’t just inspire us with her vision; she provided tangible insights into embracing challenges and fostering the resilience needed to innovate and think bigger. Our attendees left feeling really energized and equipped to pursue their own ambitious ‘moonshots”.
-Rui Rodrigues, Product Marketing Manager, Google, 2025
“Microsoft Ireland were delighted to welcome Norah Patten, Ireland’s aspiring astronaut for a virtual fireside chat with a Q&A. Norah’s stories were truly inspirational and her passion for space and the space industry shone through on the day. We received incredible feedback, the audience was so engaged on the day with many many Q&A questions for Norah. Hearing her adventureous journey from start to present was truly motivational. There is no doubt we will have Norah Patten back again. A huge thank you from all at Microsoft Ireland.”
– Microsoft Ireland
“Norah Patten joined us as part of launching our new company name to our team which echoed Norah’s talk that gave real meaning to the often neglected importance of “Believing in Your Dreams”. Her message was loud and clear, if you don’t have a goal you can’t score. Our Team found Norah’s presenting style engaging and relaxed and they left the session feeling inspired. Norah’s advocacy for STEM is deeply encouraging and hearing how she supports initiatives that bring young people particularly young women to actively engage in STEM related education and activities is very motivating.’ As a fellow UL Graduate from the Engineering fraternity it was an absolute pleasure and we are looking forward to the next time Norah can come to visit our facilities!”
– Lorraine Corcoran, Technical Director, Lynoslife (formerly Cosmetic Creations), Mayo & Cork, Ireland
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