Former NASA Astronaut Cady Coleman Inspires Students at Atlantic Technological University

Cady Coleman, a former NASA astronaut, visited Atlantic Technological University (ATU) last Wednesday, delivering an inspiring talk to over 250 secondary school students from across the region. The event held at ATU’s Sligo campus highlighted the importance of science and space exploration and the need for more young people to explore careers in STEM subjects.

The visit was organised by Dr Jerry Bird, Head of the Faculty of Science at ATU Sligo, in collaboration with the American Embassy in Ireland.

Coleman, who is one of just approximately 600 people in human history to have journeyed beyond Earth, captivated the audience as she recounted her time aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and her experiences during her missions to space.

She shared insights into the dedication, education, and hard work required to become an astronaut, encouraging the students to embrace science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects to pursue their dreams.

Coleman’s journey into space began with NASA in 1992, and she flew two space shuttle missions—STS-73 in 1995 and STS-93 in 1999—before spending nearly six months aboard the ISS in 2010. Over the course of her career, she logged more than 180 days in space, conducting numerous scientific experiments and even performing a flute duet with the Chieftains and Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull from space, a first in the history of music.

Dr Jerry Bird expressed his gratitude for Coleman’s visit, “We are incredibly honoured to have Cady Coleman here at ATU Sligo. Her career with NASA and her time in space serves as a real inspiration to the students, staff, and the entire community. She shows just how far a love of science can take you, and her message will resonate with these young minds for years to come.”

In addition to her educational talk, Coleman participated in a lively traditional Irish music session hosted by ATU’s Traditional Music Society. To commemorate her visit, the society presented her with a tin whistle, a fitting tribute to the former astronaut, who is an accomplished musician herself.

A full interview with Cady Coleman is available on the ATU podcast.