Antigua’s Keisha Schahaff, 46, and her daughter Anastatia Mayers, 18, etched their names in history as they embarked on an awe-inspiring voyage with Virgin Galactic’s inaugural space tourist flight. Reflecting on their extraordinary experience, the mother-daughter team shared how the mission left them feeling more tethered to Earth and motivated to explore life’s boundless adventures.
Anastatia Mayers, now the second youngest individual to journey to space, disclosed her initial trepidation before the flight, revealing that her apprehensions melted away as she embraced the momentous occasion. Keisha Schahaff echoed her daughter’s sentiments, emphasizing how the mission enriched their lives and sparked a profound connection to the planet they call home.
Accompanying the duo on this historic venture was Jon Goodwin, 80, a former Olympian and the second person with Parkinson’s to reach the cosmos. His perseverance exemplified the triumph of human spirit over adversity.
Mayers, currently studying Philosophy and Physics to become an astrobiologist at the University of Aberdeen, noted her wavering thoughts about the spaceflight but ultimately embraced the opportunity. Schahaff, a health and wellness coach, expressed her commitment to inspire younger generations with the strength to conquer challenges, fueled by the newfound confidence derived from this remarkable journey.
As the trio basked in the glory of their groundbreaking flight, Schahaff and Mayers stood out not only as the first Antiguans to voyage to space but also as integral participants in Virgin Galactic’s history-making commercial venture. This significant step forward for space tourism aligns with Richard Branson’s vision, ushering in a new era of exploration.
The flight symbolized unity, empowerment, and breaking barriers, as the crew embarked from Spaceport America in New Mexico, soaring above the Earth’s surface. Their return marked an extraordinary achievement, demonstrating that even Parkinson’s couldn’t deter Goodwin’s dreams of space travel.
With jewelry and cherished possessions in tow, these space pioneers now look forward to sharing their profound experience and inspiring others to reach for the stars, no matter the obstacles. The voyage wasn’t just a leap into space; it was a leap into a future where boundaries are meant to be shattered and dreams are meant to be realized.
Written by:
Dana Sterling-Editor
