To The Stars | To The Stars

Calling all space Enthusiasts

Where?

Male' Maldives

We are thrilled to welcome retired NASA astronaut and U.S. Navy Captain Dominic A. Antonelli, a celebrated figure in human space exploration, to our event! Antonelli’s storied career highlights his commitment to advancing space exploration, inspiring new generations, and pushing the boundaries of human achievement.

About Dominic A. Antonelli

Born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1967, Dominic A. Antonelli graduated from MIT with a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics and Astronautics and furthered his studies with a Master of Science from the University of Washington. Selected as a NASA astronaut in 2000, Antonelli went on to pilot two pivotal Space Shuttle missions, STS-119 in 2009 and STS-132 in 2010, which contributed significantly to the construction and expansion of the International Space Station (ISS). These missions equipped the ISS with vital solar arrays and the Russian Mini-Research Module-1, empowering its research capabilities and supporting humanity’s sustained presence in space.

AWARDS

Defense Superior Service Medal

Legion of Merit
NASA Distinguished Service Medal

NASA Space Flight Medal

Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal: 6.Air Medal

NASA Group Achievement Awards

HONORS

Naval Aviator and Test Pilot Designation:

Recognition for Space Shuttle Missions:

Acknowledgment by Peers and Superiors:

Before his NASA tenure, Antonelli served as a distinguished naval aviator and test pilot, logging over 3,200 flight hours in 40 different aircraft. His extraordinary contributions have earned him numerous awards, including the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the NASA Distinguished Service Medal.

One of the coolest aspects of Dominic A. Antonelli's career is that he went to space on the iconic Space Shuttle, piloting two crucial missions—STS-119 and STS-132. The Space Shuttle, known for its versatility and groundbreaking design, was a unique spacecraft, capable of launching like a rocket, operating as a spacecraft in orbit, and landing like an airplane. Flying it required intense skill and training, and Antonelli’s role as pilot placed him at the heart of some of the Space Shuttle program's most significant accomplishments.

Antonelli’s missions contributed directly to the construction and operation of the International Space Station (ISS), furthering humanity’s foothold in space. During STS-119 in 2009, Antonelli and his crew delivered the final set of solar arrays, essential for powering the ISS, and helped bring the station to full power capacity, enabling larger crews and more scientific research. His second mission, STS-132 in 2010, delivered and installed the Russian Mini-Research Module-1 (MRM-1), enhancing the station's capabilities for Russian research and science activities.

These missions are not only remarkable for their technical achievements but are also woven into the fabric of space exploration history. They helped lay the groundwork for extended human presence in space, paving the way for future exploration and international collaboration. Antonelli’s legacy with the Space Shuttle is a testament to his commitment to space exploration and his role in pushing the boundaries of what humanity can achieve beyond Earth.

An Advocate for Future Astronauts and Space Exploration

Beyond his missions, Antonelli is committed to mentoring aspiring astronauts and promoting space exploration. His legacy of leadership and innovation continues to inspire and empower future generations to look to the stars.

Join us in meeting Dominic A. Antonelli and exploring his remarkable journey, insights, and dedication to the future of space exploration.

Meet NASA Retired Astronaut Dominic A. Antonelli:

Meet Analog Astronaut & Space Robotics Specialist, Anisa Qureshi

Anisa Qureshi is a dedicated professional with a background in Mathematics and Computer Science from King’s College London and Space Studies from the International Space University in France. With five years of experience in technology companies, including a role as a Senior Data Analyst at OneWeb developing space-based internet services, Anisa has also contributed to a lunar mining startup focused on robotic water extraction systems. As an Analogue Astronaut, Anisa participated in a six-day mission in a cave, testing a self-assembled robot.

Anisa runs a content creation channel (@likeanstro) on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, where they have interviewed notable figures such as Tony Antonelli, former Chief Scientist of NASA, and spacesuit designers, as well as producing vlogs from their analogue astronaut mission. Currently, Anisa is preparing to pursue a second master’s degree in Robotics and Autonomous Systems at Boston University to specialize in robots for space applications and aims to become an astronaut. Anisa's interests include calisthenics, swimming, and working towards a scuba diving license.

AWARDS

European Space Agency Scholarship
Issued by: European Space Agency
Date: September 2018
Associated with: International Space University
Description: Awarded ESA Scholarship to fund a Master of Science in Aerospace at the International Space University.
Enterprise Award - Issued by:
King's College London_Date: July 2015
Description: Recognized for demonstrating understanding of enterprise, presenting and self-evaluating an enterprise proposal, analyzing potential problems, and communicating the proposal coherently in economic, social, and cultural contexts.
STEM Scholarship - Issued by: STEM_Date: September 2013 Associated with: King's College London.
Description: Fully funded scholarship for a three-year undergraduate course (£30,000) based on high achieving grades and an essay segment.