How a space enthusiast campaigns for women in STEM fiels and Bremen as a space location

Dr. Anna Chrobry wants to shape the future of space flight – from right here in Bremen. As an systems engineer for Human Spaceflight projects and chapter lead for Women in Aerospace Bremen, she is committed to making the space industry more inclusive and visible. In this interview, conducted under the ISS model at Bremen Airport, she talks about the first sparks of inspiration and Bremen’s role as a European space hub.

Dr. Chrobry, a fun question to start with: Recently, Rabea Rogge the first German woman flew into space with the FRAM2 mission. Around the same time, Katy Perry and her all-female team briefly visited space in a public stunt. If you had to choose: would you rather join the serious FRAM2 mission—without ever being allowed to talk about it—or Katy Perry’s crew, but you’d have to tell everyone about it?

Dr. Chrobry: Laughs I’d choose the FRAM2 mission that has more meaning, even if it’s less well known. I’m from Poland, which isn’t exactly famous for its space industry. So for me, it’s about contributing to something with real scientific value and long-term impact—something that inspires girls and boys alike to pursue careers in STEM. You have to think about the bigger picture, not just personal fame.

How did your interest in space begin?

It wasn’t a single event. When I was little, I received a book about earth and the universe. Most of it was about protecting the oceans and the atmosphere, but there was this small chapter about space exploration. It featured two characters—a boy and a girl—and both were equally curious and adventurous. I remember thinking: “Yes, girls and boys can do this. Girls can go to space too.” That stayed with me.

And then there was Star Trek: Voyager. I used to watch it with my dad. Captain Janeway, she was this fearless female commander exploring the galaxy. I grew up with that. It made space feel real and reachable. So no real life role models.

Read more – discover the aerospace story at www.wfb-bremen.de