Ruthba Yasmin is on course to become the first Bangladeshi woman to set foot on the moon, after completing training for Space Nation`s Moon Pioneer Mission — a major step toward that ambitious goal.
The announcement on April 16 created a buzz across social media, with Space Nation unveiling its first-ever mostly female crew for a future lunar mission. Among the team is Ruthba, who stands ready to carry Bangladesh’s flag beyond Earth’s orbit.
The timing of the announcement came just two days after global pop icon Katy Perry’s all-women spaceflight aboard Blue Origin, marking a strong symbolic shift in women’s representation in space. Together, the two events sent a unified message: women are not just entering space — they are claiming their space.
Speaking to The Business Standard, Ruthba expressed quiet determination: “If I can be the one to make history, it would be a defining moment not just for me, but for the world.”
From Dhaka to the Cosmos
Ruthba’s journey began at Scholastica in Dhaka and later took her to Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts, where she earned a BA in Physics and a minor in Mathematics. During the pandemic, she returned to Bangladesh and pursued a graduate degree in Data Science at United International University. She then completed a master’s in Electrical and Electronics Engineering at the University of South Alabama in 2024.
Her academic turning point came through her thesis on space weather, particularly geomagnetic storms affecting Earth`s magnetosphere. This research ignited her deeper passion for space exploration.
.jpeg)
Training for the Moon
The Moon Pioneer Mission training was rigorous and realistic. Ruthba trained in both Moon Base and Mission Control roles, learning to handle mock emergencies, assemble spacesuits, execute Extra-Vehicular Activities (EVAs), and manage In-Situ Resource Utilisation (ISRU) operations — essential for any lunar expedition.
She played a critical role as EVA Specialist, working on radiation shielding and resource extraction while maintaining close communication with ground control. “We were under immense pressure. Every second counted,” Ruthba said, noting that the final mission tasks were completed with just 60 seconds to spare before a simulated emergency.
A Message to Aspiring Astronauts
To fellow Bangladeshis dreaming of space, Ruthba offered both inspiration and direction: “Start with genuine interest in space topics. Build a foundation in STEM fields, but more importantly, be curious, courageous, and authentic.”
She highlighted the importance of inclusivity and representation in the space industry. “Only 11% of astronauts are women,” she noted. “That needs to change.”
Inspired by Legends
Ruthba credits astronaut Sunita Williams as a key role model, citing her record-breaking spacewalks and leadership aboard the International Space Station. “She paved the way. Now it’s our turn to go further.”
Preparing for the Unknown
Space, she says, demands more than technical skill. Mental endurance is vital. “Structured routines, staying physically fit, and fostering crew camaraderie help astronauts manage the isolation and psychological demands of space travel.”
Looking Ahead
With training from Space Nation, Artemis, and Lunar Surface Operations under her belt, Ruthba is preparing for future expeditions. “Becoming the first woman on the moon is more than a personal dream — it’s about representing Bangladesh and advancing humanity’s place in the universe.”
As the global space race intensifies, Ruthba Yasmin is no longer just reaching for the moon — she’s preparing to leave her mark on it.
-20241020092600.png)
-20250611065201.jpg)
