An 8-year-old girl from England had the incredible opportunity to chat with astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) through her father’s amateur radio system.
According to CNN, Isabella Payne (8 years old) from eastern England had an unforgettable experience when she spoke directly with astronaut Kjell Lindgren who was at the ISS. The conversation took place through an amateur radio system that her father had set up.
Isabella recounted that, in the middle of the night on a day in early August, she was unexpectedly awakened by her father and taken to the radio room, where he placed a headset on her head. Initially, Isabella was not interested, but when she realized she was speaking with Kjell Lindgren, everything changed 180 degrees.
Isabella Payne with her amateur radio system at home. (Photo: CNN)
“I was so excited to hear his voice; it felt like a dream. When I said my name and age, he seemed surprised, and there was even laughter,” Isabella recalled.
After their brief conversation, the American astronaut took to Twitter to share that his dialogue with Isabella was one of his most memorable experiences.
“I had a great time, thanks to everyone in the amateur radio community. I have talked to many people from all over the continents, but Isabella was truly special. Thank you for always loving space,” astronaut Lindgren said.
Isabella and her father, Mr. Matthew Payne. (Photo: CNN)
Isabella’s father, Mr. Matthew Payne (42 years old), has pursued his passion for amateur radio for 22 years and wanted to create a beautiful memory for his daughter. According to him, the ISS has an amateur radio station set up for astronauts to communicate with students around the world.
After several weeks of trying to make contact, Mr. Matthew successfully received a call from Kjell Lindgren, and he immediately passed that opportunity to his daughter.
Both father and daughter are avid fans of aerospace. They have followed all news about rocket launches and watched videos about activities on the space station together. Isabella mentioned that she wants to become a NASA communications specialist when she grows up.
“I’ve always wanted to say good morning to an astronaut and ask them if everything around them is still floating as usual,” the bright-eyed 8-year-old said with a smile.
