Engineer aiming for outer space to drop off at Air Waves Portrush

Dr Norah Patten from County Mayo will attend the two-day event, organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, on September 1st and 2nd where she will share her inspiring plans for space exploration and answer questions from any buddings scientists.Last year Dr Patten became Ireland's first scientist-astronaut candidate with Project PoSSUM (Polar Suborbital Science in the Upper Mesosphere), a unique space training programme in Florida.The Deputy Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Councillor Trevor Clarke said: "We are very excited to welcome Dr Patten whose exciting aeronautical experience will bring the industry to life and showcase the vast opportunities which STEM subjects can offer. I have no doubt our visitors will be inspired by her enthusiasm and we are looking forward to welcoming her to Portrush and hear her story so far.

"Since its successful debut at Air Waves Portrush in 2016, the STEM Village has doubled in size and is now a highlight of the ground attractions."Dr Patten's journey to space began with a visit to NASA as an 11-year-old girl. This sparked a life-long fascination with what lies beyond the stars which has shaped both her academic life and career path.The STEM Village, sponsored by MJM, is bigger than ever with 20 exhibitors alongside the Education Authority's STEM Module mobile laboratory and workshop. Located in East Strand car park, it provides a bespoke space for employers and education providers to showcase their facilities, projects and skills in an engaging and interactive way.The line-up of exhibitors includes the Royal Aeronautical Society, Bombardier, Sentinus and Survitec and promises visitors an inspiring and interactive experience.