ST JOHN’S, Antigua – The twin-island Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda, is over the moon, and excitedly gearing up for one of their greatest adventures in history as Keisha Schahaff and her daughter Anastasia Mayers embark on a space travel journey, that will see them become Antigua and Barbuda’s first astronauts, and the first Caribbean mother-daughter duo to go to space.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Schahaff, 46 years, and her 18-year-old daughter will on August 10, 2023, board the Galactic 02 spaceflight from Spaceport America, New Mexico, marking Virgin Galactic’s first private astronaut spaceflight, and second commercial spaceflight.
To mark the historic occasion, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority announced two public watch parties on August 10 in Antigua and Barbuda, allowing for the entire nation to be a part of the celebrations.
Galactic 02 will mark a historic and inspirational moment for the Caribbean and beyond, with watch parties and observances happening to celebrate the curiosity and achievements of the astronauts.
“Antigua and Barbuda’s spirit of adventure is unparallel. We commend the duo who will for years to come serve as an inspiration for those within our society who dream of travelling to space, and as a reminder of fearless Antiguans and Barbudans who have broken barriers. We are excited to witness this moment in history and extend an open invitation to all to join us at the watch parties for this historic moment,” said Antigua and Barbuda minister of tourism, civil aviation, transportation, and investment.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Colin C. James, said:
“We applaud our ladies as they embark on their remarkable journey to space. The excitement is such that the whole of Antigua and Barbuda feels as if we will be going to space with the ladies. We cannot wait for August 10, and will be out with our flags to cheer the ladies on.”
Special guests of the prime minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Gaston Browne, at the watch party will be Sir Richard Branson founder of Virgin Galactic, and Christopher Huie, a Jamaican-American, who earlier this year became the 19th Black astronaut, family of the Antigua and Barbuda astronauts as well as government officials and dignitaries.
The watch party in Antigua will take place at the Antigua Recreation Ground and in Barbuda, at the Holy Trinity Primary School. Venues will open at 9:00 a.m. with launch time shortly after 10:00 a.m.
In addition to being part of the countdown and witnessing the exciting launch of the Galactic 02 spaceflight from Spaceport America, New Mexico live on screens in Antigua and Barbuda, persons attending the public event will enjoy entertainment and activities in celebration of the occasion.
