As a young girl, Maggie Aderin-Pocock was obsessed with outer space and loved looking at the night sky. She lived in London with her Nigerian-born parents. Her family didn’t have much money, but they always supported her. It was clear from a young age that Maggie had dyslexia, which is a learning disability that affects reading. Her school often dismissed and underestimated her. When she told her teacher that she wanted to be an astronaut, she was advised to consider nursing instead. Undeterred, she enrolled in a telescope-making class in north London, and this was the start of a life-long fascination. During her childhood, Maggie attended 13 different schools and during this time, her parents split up, so she showed remarkable resilience in finding a way to make things work in new situations.

Maggie worked hard and gained four A levels in Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Biology and went on to graduate in Physics and gained a PhD in Mechanical Engineering.

Her dream to work in astronomy became a reality when she started working on the Gemini telescope in Chile. She has also worked on the Aeolus satellite, which helps scientists understand climate change and on some of the biggest space projects, including NASA’s recently launched James Webb telescope.

In addition to working on space missions, she has become passionate about inspiring young people in science, leading to her presenting TV shows on science and space. In 2009, she was awarded an MBE for her work as a science communicator, breaking down complex scientific issues into simple information that everyone can understand, and for her outreach to young people.

Maggie has regularly been voted as one of the most influential women and Black people. In 2023, the toy company Mattel created a Barbie doll in her image to celebrate International Women’s Day.