Nicole Mann’s five-month mission aboard the International Space Station is under way.
The first Native American woman in space has said she is overwhelmed by the beauty and delicacy of Mother Earth, and is channelling “positive energy” as her five-month mission gets under way.
Nasa astronaut Nicole Mann said from the International Space Station that she has received lots of prayers and blessings from her family and tribal community.
She is a member of the Wailacki of the Round Valley Indian Tribes in Northern California.
Ms Mann showed off the dream catcher she took up with her, a childhood gift from her mother that she has always held dear.
The small traditional webbed hoop with feathers is used to offer protection, and she said it has given her strength during challenging times.
“But that positive energy is so important, and you can control that energy, and it helps to control your attitude.”
Ms Mann, 45, a US marine colonel and test pilot who was born in Petaluma, California, said it is important to recognise there are all types of people aboard the space station.
It is currently home to three Americans, three Russians and one Japanese astronaut. (LBC)