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Herald Reporter

Have you ever had an experience that sparked a passion that would shape your entire life?

That moment arrived one night for a Form Five St George’s College student, Thomas Machingaidze while watching a YouTube livestream in the quiet of his bedroom.

In 2018, a 10-year-old Machingaidze witnessed history unfold on his screen.

He tuned in to watch the launch of SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy rocket, a pivotal moment that marked a giant leap forward in space exploration capabilities.

This was not just another rocket launch; it was a spark that ignited a lifelong dream.

Six years later, the dream is well on its way to becoming reality.

Last week, 16-year-old Machingaidze made history himself, becoming the first Zimbabwean ever to be accepted into a degree programme at the International Institute of Astronautical Sciences in the United States.

There, he will embark on a rigorous training journey to become a full-fledged astronaut.

“I think it was 2018 when SpaceX launched the Falcon Heavy for the first time. Watching that on YouTube in my bedroom just before midnight, something about that flipped a switch in my mind,” said Mr Machingaidze.

“I felt that the tides were shifting, this was the start of a defining period in human history. And I thought to myself that day, that I wanted to be a part of that.”

Since 2015 and, with students from over 54 different countries, IIAS has promoted a globally-inclusive space-faring future by providing affordable, immersive educational services and access to subject matter experts and state-of-the-art facilities.

Elated by his accomplishment, Machingaidze expressed a multitude of emotions.

“ . . . happy, excited, but most of all I feel proud to be able to go out there and show them what Zimbabweans are capable of, and hopefully to have inspired more youths to explore opportunities and careers in STEM.”

While astronauts currently conduct research and development in space along with various mission duties, their role is about to evolve. Soon, they will be the pioneers in establishing a permanent presence on the moon.

“I will be going through various courses where I will get a feel of astronaut training, for example, parabolic zero-g flights, spacesuit training, mission simulation training, and many others,” said Machingaidze.

Even before enrolling, Machingaidze harboured the dream of conducting experiments.

Inspired by the Artemis missions and humanity’s return to the moon with a focus on permanent settlements, he believes his ideal project at the IIAS will involve creating a prototype technology or research focused on sustainable lunar habitats.

“To lead research efforts aimed at developing a Lunar Dust Filtration System, which would be an essential technology for safeguarding both the well being and functionality of lunar habitats. 

“Lunar dust presents challenges for astronauts as well as equipment operating on the moon. 

“Managing this dust is crucial to ensure that habitat systems function and to ensure the health of lunar settlers.

“The research I was thinking of doing involved studying the unique characteristics of lunar dust, with the goal of creating filters that can efficiently capture and contain it, as well as making maintenance protocols for the system in the challenging lunar environment.

“While I don’t have all of the details of the project laid out yet, this serves as an outline of the research I would like to lead.”

While the US space programme has astronauts who pilot spacecraft (pilots) and conduct scientific research (mission specialists), Machingaidze is eager to undergo astronaut training, which could lead him to a fulfilling role in piloting or other critical space missions.

“After getting a feel of what it is like to be commander during the Mars mission simulation last year, I would say that is probably my favourite. Leading is always a nice feeling,” said Machingaidze.

Curious about black astronaut representation, this publication inquired if he knew about anyone who recently qualified for the programme.

“The institute is very big on diversity and bringing space for all, and actually had the pleasure of meeting Astronaut Winston Scott, one of the earliest black astronauts,” Machingaidze said.

“I am the first Zimbabwean, but there have been people of colour enrolled in the institute before, I had two people from India in my cohort.”

Machingaidze acknowledged the daunting nature of chasing dreams. And offering advice to youth his age, he said:

“Going out there and pushing the boundaries of what you believe is possible is scary. But if I am to tell any of my fellow youths anything, it is that you should stand loud and be proud of yourself and your country.

“We as Zimbabweans are very capable and intelligent people. With passion and hard work we have what it takes to conquer the world. The world is changing, there is something being invented every day, a new idea, a new creation. 

“And I see no reason why Zimbabweans cannot be a part of that. I am motivated everyday by what the future holds, for all of us,” he said.