London, Oct 4 (US): A Barbie doll version of Italian astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti has embarked on a zero-gravity journey with the aim of inspiring young girls to consider a career in space, science, technology, mathematics and engineering (STEM).
Marking World Space Week October 4-10, which this year celebrates women in space, toy maker Mattel has teamed up with the European Space Agency (ESA) and Cristoforetti, which is currently training for its next mission to the International Space Station next April.
As part of the project, a Cristoforetti-like doll has mirrored the setup an astronaut would need before heading into space, by traveling and floating on a zero-gravity flight from the European Space Agency’s base in Germany.
“Samantha’s little doll has already been in parabolic flight so she already has some experience with weightlessness,” Cristoforitti, 44, said in a video statement.
“I really hope that by showing that we can create some excitement for young girls in particular…maybe…these pictures will spark a spark of passion in some girls’ heart and it will be incredible.”
As part of the project, Barbie shares educational resources on space on her website, and proceeds from the new Samantha Cristoforetti Barbie doll, formerly a one-of-a-kind toy, will be donated to Women in Aerospace for a PhD student. Grant.
HF