#AngIdolKongSTEM: Kristine Atienza, Trailblazing Filipino Analog Astronaut

Kristine “Tin” Jane Atienza has carved a remarkable path in science as the first Filipino analog astronaut and a registered nutritionist-dietitian with the Space Generation Advisory Council. Her extraordinary journey reflects a blend of passion, dedication, and a pioneering spirit.

From an early age, Atienza’s fascination with the cosmos was evident. At just four years old, she dreamed of becoming an astronomer, captivated by the universe’s mysteries. Despite the lack of dedicated courses in the Philippines, she pursued physics at the University of the Philippines and later shifted her focus to nutrition. Her passion for astronomy persisted, leading her to engage deeply with the local astronomy community, humorously referring to her activities as her “literal nightlife.”

Atienza’s path took a significant turn when she joined the space community, a realm distinct from her previous astronomy experience. Here, she encountered international nutritionists and dieticians, sparking her interest in space nutrition. This led her to participate in analog missions, where she and her team focused on space nutrition studies.

As she became more involved in space missions, Atienza took on the role of a crew member, experiencing life as part of a space crew firsthand. Her duties included managing the crew’s nutrient intake, overseeing food supply inventory, and monitoring crew health daily. Sharing medical responsibilities with the base engineer, she gained a fresh perspective on her work through her international experiences.

Reflecting on her journey, Atienza notes, “Siguro, eventually, pagkabalik ko ng Philippines tapos meron ako ganung title na dun ko na-realize that it’s a bigger role, probably.”

Despite the progress in science education in the Philippines, Atienza acknowledges the challenges, including limited research funding and a shortage of specialized science teachers. She advises the younger generation to explore various science disciplines and stay open-minded. “Explore the different science disciplines—whether it’s chemistry, physics, or any other field. You’re still young, so take the time to explore and discover what truly interests you,” she suggests.

Atienza underscores the importance of hard work in science, emphasizing that there are no shortcuts. “Wala talagang shortcut, yung science and math, walang shortcuts dun,” she states. She also encourages young people to seek out opportunities and advocate for themselves despite limited research opportunities. “It shouldn’t be the case, but they probably need to seek out opportunities. We’re very well-connected now, and there are lots and lots of opportunities out there,” she advises.

Her humanitarian efforts, especially addressing malnutrition among children and mothers, are a source of pride. “I see the direct impact of my work on the community,” she shares. Atienza hopes her involvement in astronomy and space missions inspires the younger generation to pursue science. “Hopefully, it inspired the young generation to pursue not just space, but science in general,” she reflects.

Atienza also aspires to empower fellow nutritionists and dieticians in the Philippines. “Aside from the analog mission, I hope I’ve opened up opportunities for my fellow nutritionists here in the Philippines, where opportunities can be limited,” she says. Her current major efforts include contributing to space nutrition and developing Filipino space food and analog space missions.

A graduate of the University of the Philippines Diliman with a degree in Community Nutrition, Atienza blends her interests in space and nutrition. She is involved with the International Astronomical Union for Diversity and Inclusion and co-founded the Astronaut Nutrition in Isolated Confined Extreme Environments (ANICE). Currently, she studies the impact of nutrition on astronaut health with HI-SEAS, working on missions such as Asclepios, CHILL-ICE, and LunAres.