Dr. Estel Blay, Hypatia II crew member, has been awarded the Inspirational Award 2024 by Women In Aerospace Europe (WIA-Europe). The prize recognizes Dr. Blay’s significant contributions and commitment to aerospace research and outreach, and her dedication to promoting gender inclusivity in the field. This award aims to encourage WIA-Europe members to promote space and inspire future generations.
WIA-Europe was founded in 2009 by Simonetta Di Pippo and Claudia Kessler, as an organization committed to connecting women in aerospace, enhancing their visibility, and supporting their career advancement. With the support of individual and corporate members, WIA-Europe advocates for equal opportunities and offers various events and initiatives to support a diverse aerospace community, including grants and awards such as the WIA-Europe Inspirational Award.
Dr. Estel Blay, with over 14 years of experience as an aerospace engineer, specializes in leveraging satellite technology for sustainability strategies worldwide. Her role as Scientist and Health and Safety Officer for the Hypatia II mission involves supporting the research and well-being of the crew, as well as pioneering research on Innovations in Mitigating Dust Challenges for Martian Solar Panels. This project aims to optimize solar panel efficiency on Mars through innovative technologies such as robotic cleaning systems, self-cleaning coatings and electrodynamic shield technology. WIA-Europe’s award will financially cover expenses such as accommodation, training and equipment during Dr. Blay’s stay at the Mars Desert Research Station.