Figlie delle Stelle

Women and girls in Space are often referred to as “the other half of the sky.” Yet for them—as for all those who pursue STEM careers (in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics)—gender stereotypes and biases still represent a significant barrier. This is evident from the very beginning of academic paths, with only 16.8% of female graduates holding degrees in scientific fields, compared to 37% of their male counterparts. Numerous studies have also shown that women in these disciplines publish less, are paid less, and advance more slowly in their careers than men.

Within the framework of the No Women No Panel initiative—Without women, it’s not worth talking—which aims to promote gender-balanced representation in public discourse by highlighting female expertise and talent, the special event Figlie delle Stelle ("Daughters of the Stars") takes place in Spoleto. At its center is Amalia Ercoli Finzi, the first woman to graduate in aeronautical engineering from the Politecnico di Milano in 1962 and a true aerospace pioneer. A role modelcapable of inspiring new generations, she is also an ambassador for No Women No Panel and for the research volume Equality is not an opinion. Alongside her, prominent figures in aerospace and astronomy will contribute to a truly “stellar” experience, culminating in an evening sky observation.