A high school passion for calculus led Eden to her current role in the space sector. As a space engineer at the Space Science and Geospatial Institute in Ethiopia, her work spans systems engineering, avionics systems, and attitude and orbit control systems.
What’s your aerospace origin story?
I’m passionate and have always been fascinated by the engineering that goes into the machines that fly into space. It took me from a degree in electrical engineering to a master’s degree in space engineering. Growing up in Ethiopia, where the aerospace sector is still in its early stages of development, has driven me to contribute to its growth and become a pioneer in the field. To build practical experience, I participated in international aerospace research projects, which have helped me strengthen my technical skills and further solidified my interest in the area.
Favorite thing about your job?
How it allows me to be part of research in enabling technology for spaceflights and exploration. It’s fascinating to contribute to technology that will leave Earth. Being part of new findings in space technology and exploring innovation is a fulfilling experience; being part of a global community pushing the boundaries of space technology inspires me. Furthermore, it provides an opportunity to collaborate with international professionals and experts in the aerospace sector.
What motivates you?
The significant impact of satellites on national development. As a developing country, Ethiopia’s situation makes it quite challenging to have access to and develop space capabilities. However, it is still necessary. Hence, I decided to pursue a master’s in space engineering to help strengthen the space sector and make a positive impact in Ethiopia and potentially across Africa in the years to come.
What tech outside your field fascinates you?
I’m curious about the influence of AI on different industries. What fascinates me the most is envisioning AI as the next step in spacecraft design, planning missions, and executing operations without human beings.
What will the world look like in 2050?
Humanity will be closer to becoming a multiplanetary species, meaning progress in establishing sustainable habitats beyond Earth. Aerospace technology will be more advanced and accessible, enabling even the most emerging nations to have stronger, more independent space capabilities. I envision a future in which space plays an active part in global development and in everyday life.
MORE ABOUT EDEN
AIAA CONNECTION: A member of the 2025 AIAA Ascendants cohort, she presented at the July 2025 conference in Las Vegas, which she called “the coolest experience.” “It allows me to collaborate and network with aerospace professionals and experts, and it gives me a chance to present my work and publish an op-ed on the ASCEND event website.”
Her Ascendants paper, “Space Debris as a Barrier to Sustainable Space Development in Emerging Nations,” concluded that “debris represents not only a technical hurdle but also a moral and geopolitical challenge. Without urgent, equitable action, emerging nations will bear the brunt of a crisis they did not create, stifling their potential to advance climate monitoring, connectivity, and scientific discovery.”
EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in electrical and computer engineering, Debre Birhan University, 2019; Master’s degree in space engineering, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, 2024.
GROWTH PLANS: She sees a bright future for the Ethiopian aerospace industry: “This field is still growing, and a lot of experts, students, and professionals are also engaged in this sector. My friends from high school and university always tell me, ‘This was your passion, and you made it happen.’”
