Katherine Halder, Director of the European Space Resources Innovation Centre (ESRIC), is shaping Luxembourg’s role in space mining while promoting gender equality in science and engineering. Originally trained in chemical engineering, her career took unexpected turns through mining research and academia before she joined the space sector.

At ESRIC, she oversees research into extracting usable resources—like oxygen—from celestial bodies to support future space missions. Halder sees the emerging space economy as an opportunity to bring more women into STEM fields. She stresses that outreach in schools and universities is key to inspiring girls to pursue careers in science.

Though ESRIC once had gender parity in its small team of 25, Halder still often finds herself the only woman in high-level meetings. She highlights the need for more inclusive practices, especially in startups, where male dominance remains strong.

Luxembourg’s role in space resources, while ambitious and controversial, has gained global attention. Halder believes the country's strong stance has positioned it as a leader. She also emphasizes the responsibility to avoid repeating Earth’s environmental mistakes in space.

Her story closes a series of interviews on women in STEM, reminding us how ambition, opportunity, and equity can redefine new frontiers.