Born: 1963 (Grenoside, Sheffield)
Biography:
Helen Patricia Sharman, CMG, OBE, HonFRSC, was born on May 30, 1963, in Grenoside, Sheffield. She grew up in this small town and attended Grenoside Junior and Infant School before moving to Greenhill. Sharman later studied at Jordanthorpe Comprehensive, where she developed a passion for chemistry. She went on to pursue higher education at the University of Sheffield, earning a BSc degree in chemistry in 1984. Continuing her academic journey, Sharman obtained a PhD degree from Birkbeck, the University of London, in 1987, solidifying her expertise in the field.
After completing her studies, Sharman embarked on a career in research and development as a technologist for GEC in London. Subsequently, she worked as a chemist for Mars, specifically focusing on the flavoring properties of chocolate. It was during this period that the UK press affectionately dubbed her The Girl from Mars, showcasing her dedication and expertise in her chosen field.
In 1989, an extraordinary opportunity presented itself to Sharman. She heard a radio advertisement seeking applicants for the first British space explorer. Intrigued by the idea, she responded to the call despite having no prior experience in space exploration. Little did she know that her life was about to change forever.
Selected from nearly 13,000 applicants, Sharman was chosen for the groundbreaking mission live on ITV on November 25, 1989. This initiative, known as Project Juno, was a cooperative effort between the United Kingdom and the Soviet Union. Its objective was to strengthen the relationship between the two nations during the final years of the Cold War. By sending a British astronaut to the Mir space station, the project aimed to foster a stronger bond between the two countries.
Sharman’s selection was based on various factors, including her scientific, educational, and aerospace backgrounds. Additionally, her ability to learn a foreign language played a crucial role in the decision-making process. Speaking about her excitement for the mission, Sharman stated, It wasn’t so much going to space as the training that appealed, living in Russia, learning the language, doing advanced mechanics. It was a way out of the rat race.
Following her selection, Sharman dedicated herself to an intensive 18-month flight training program in Star City, Moscow. During this period, she trained alongside her British backup, Major Tim Mace. The journey was not without its challenges, as the Project Juno consortium faced financial difficulties and the program was on the verge of cancellation. However, due to the project’s impact on international relations, the Soviet Union decided to proceed with the mission, albeit with cost-saving measures in place.
On May 18, 1991, the Soyuz TM-12 mission launched, carrying Sharman and two Soviet cosmonauts, Anatoly Artsebarsky and Sergei Krikalev. The mission lasted eight days, most of which were spent at the Mir space station. Sharman’s tasks during her time in space included conducting medical and agricultural tests, as well as capturing photographs of the British Isles.
As a result of her remarkable achievements, Helen Sharman made history. She became the first British person to venture into space, breaking down barriers and opening doors for future generations. Moreover, she became the first Western European woman and the first privately funded woman to reach space, leaving an indelible mark on the history of space exploration. Sharman’s incredible journey inspired countless individuals and exemplified the limitless possibilities that exist for women in science and technology.
Awards:
– Order of the British Empire (OBE)
– Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG)
– Honorary Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (HonFRSC)