Title: Long Island Native Jasmin Moghbeli Rockets to Space on NASA SpaceX Crew-7 Mission
Subtitle: Nassau County astronaut fulfills lifelong dream of space exploration
Baldwin, Nassau County – In an extraordinary moment filled with anticipation and excitement, NASA’s SpaceX Crew-7 successfully launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Saturday. Four astronauts from four different countries embarked on a journey to the International Space Station (ISS), including Long Island native Lieutenant Colonel Jasmin Moghbeli.
Moghbeli, a former student of Lenox Elementary School and Baldwin Middle and High schools, has risen through the ranks to become the commander of the Space Crew 7 mission. The launch, delayed for a few days, finally took place before dawn on Saturday, marking a significant milestone in Moghbeli’s career.
Expressing her gratitude and disbelief, Moghbeli previously told Eyewitness News, “I still wake up every morning, and it still feels like a ‘pinch me’ moment to think I’m actually an astronaut right now.”
Joining Moghbeli on this momentous six-month mission are the European Space Agency’s Andreas Mogensen, Japan’s Satoshi Furukawa, and Russia’s Konstantin Borisov. And while each crew member brings their expertise to the table, Moghbeli stands as the leader and sole woman representing her country, fulfilling her lifelong dream of venturing into outer space.
Witnesses to the historical launch included Moghbeli’s first-grade and reading elementary school teachers, as well as Baldwin Schools Superintendent Dr. Shari Camhi. Camhi couldn’t contain her pride, excitement, and hope for Moghbeli’s success, stating, “She spent a lot of time with our elementary students and our high school students.”
For Moghbeli, the journey not only signifies personal triumph but also opens an opportunity to inspire future generations. Having revisited her roots at Lenox Elementary School in March, she aimed to help students develop an affinity for science, her first passion. In fact, fifth-grader Mia Jones even contributed a painting that is expected to accompany Moghbeli in space.
Back on Earth, the Baldwin community, even strangers, are basking in the glory of Moghbeli’s remarkable achievement. Tom Hessel from Freeport expressed, “Incredible,” while Alma Kari-Yawson from Baldwin, emphasized, “I want her to know that her whole entire community is rooting for her.”
Lt. Col. Moghbeli plans to conduct numerous experiments during her time on the ISS, observing how objects and the human body react to the absence of gravity. Over the next six months, the crew will perform nearly 200 experiments, contributing valuable insights to space exploration.
In addition to her scientific endeavors, Moghbeli intends to engage in a live chat with hundreds of students, allowing them to share in the wonder of her experience and fostering a passion for space exploration.
As Baldwin’s hometown hero continues her journey, she exemplifies the extraordinary accomplishments possible through dedication, perseverance, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
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