# South African-born professor Michele Dougherty has made history as the first woman appointed Astronomer Royal in the UK’s 350-year history. Born in KwaZulu-Natal, Dougherty’s journey began under southern skies, inspiring her passion for space. Her groundbreaking work on NASA’s Cassini mission and Europe’s Jupiter exploration earned her global recognition. She now holds one of the UK’s most prestigious scientific titles. She hopes her appointment encourages young girls to dream big.
KZN born professor Michele Dougherty becomes UK’s first female Astronomer Royal