Salam Abu Al-Hijja to become first Jordanian in space
Jordanian Salam Abu Al-Hijja has made history as the country’s first officially announced astronaut candidate, marking a significant step for Jordanian and Arab participation in global space exploration.
Abu Al-Hijja will begin her training in the coming months as part of a three-year program, preparing for an orbital space mission set for 2029 aboard the Titans Genesis spacecraft. The mission will reach an altitude of 300 kilometers and last five hours, including three hours in zero gravity.
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In a post on her social media accounts, she expressed pride in the achievement, writing: “Alhamdulillah, after years of dreaming and determination… I’ve officially been selected as the first Jordanian astronaut candidate.” She added that the milestone is not just personal but “a national achievement for every young man and woman in Jordan, and for every Arab dream once told it was impossible.”
She emphasized that the mission represents both Jordan and the Arab world, calling it an inspiring step for anyone who believes that ambition knows no limits.