First woman of Vietnamese origin to fly into space

Amanda Ngoc Nguyen, 32, is going to space in line with the Space for Humanity’s Citizen Astronaut Program, which aims to "empower each citizen astronaut to address global challenges with a broader outlook," according to the organization.

Nguyen will fly to space on a New Shepard rocket of Blue Origin, an American aerospace manufacturer, defense contractor, and launch service provider, becoming the first woman of Vietnamese origin to fly in space.

Amanda Ngoc Nguyen poses for a photo in ao dai, Vietnamese traditional costume. Photo courtesy of Nguyen

"I am thrilled to be partnered with Space for Humanity, not just for their support, but also their vision and values. Together, we're committed to changing the way we all think about the cosmos, each other, and humanity's future. I look forward to my journey to space as well as our continued journey to a brighter and better future," Nguyen said in a Space for Humanity's statement.

A 2019 Nobel Peace Prize nominee and Time Woman of the Year in 2022, Nguyen is a civil rights activist and founder of Rise, known for her work on the Sexual Assault Survivors' Rights Act and advocacy for Asian American rights.

In a video released by the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam on Thursday, Nguyen said in Vietnamese:

"I am Vietnamese. I’m flying to space so that young Vietnamese women can see themselves among the stars. What’s important for me is that I can carry my community by my side. I might be the first, but I will not be the last."

No specific date for the New Shepard launch has been announced.