Celebrating World Space Week, Barbie is partnering with the European Space Agency (ESA) and its only active European female astronaut, Samantha Cristoforetti, to celebrate “Women in Space.” The collaboration sees Samantha’s doll sent on a Zero-G flight and educational resources on space made available to parents and teachers. Part of the proceeds from sales of the Samantha Cristoforetti Barbie doll, previously a one-of-a-kind Barbie, but now available across Europe, will be donated to Women in Aerospace to inspire the next generation by creating a Barbie bursary for a PhD student.
“With STEM careers still underrepresented by women, Barbie is using its platform this World Space Week to show girls exciting and diverse roles and activity in space for them to explore their limitless potential,” says Isabel Ferrer, Barbie spokesperson and Barbie marketing director, EMEA.
To celebrate this World Space Week, the Samantha look-alike doll departed from the ESA base in Germany and travelled on a Zero-gravity flight, modelling the preparation and experience of a real-life astronaut.
Samantha Cristoforetti, from Italy, is an aviator, engineer, astronaut and currently in training ahead of her next mission to the International Space Station in April. During her six-month tour of duty, she will take on the role of commander and plans to take her doll on the mission with her to continue inspiring girls.
“Sometimes little things can plant the seeds of great dreams,” says Cristoforetti. “Who knows? Maybe the fun images of my doll floating in weightlessness will spark children’s imagination and lead them to consider a career in STEM.”
For details on how to apply for the Women in Aerospace Europe Outreach Award: The ESA x Barbie Bursary, visit: Wia-europe.org
Barbie space-themed dolls now available from Amazon include the Samantha Cristoforetti Barbie doll, Barbie astronaut dolls and a spaceship playset.
