An 18-year-old student from Aberdeen University and her mother are set to embark on a remarkable journey to space this week after securing spots on Virgin Galactic’s second commercial flight through a prize draw.

Anastatia Mayers and her mother, Keisha Schahaff, are about to become the first mother and daughter duo to venture into space, making history not only for this achievement but also as the first individuals from the Caribbean to undertake such a space voyage.

Departing from New Mexico on Thursday, the pair’s unique opportunity emerged when Keisha entered a competition while traveling from Antigua to the UK.

The unexpected win came as a surprise, with Richard Branson himself delivering the exciting news at their doorstep.

Anastatia, a second-year philosophy and physics student, credits her decision to study in Scotland for leading her to this exceptional chance.

This marks the second commercial spaceflight for Virgin Galactic, and Anastatia, the second youngest person to journey into space, aims to inspire others with her groundbreaking experience, hoping to show that dreams can be realized regardless of one’s background or circumstances.

The mission, named Galactic 02, will also include former Team GB Olympian Jon Goodwin, making him the second person with Parkinson’s to travel to space.