As a child growing up in Kaffrine, Senegal, Salma Sylla Mbaye loved looking at the night sky and watching the stars. Her fascination with space encouraged her to study science at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar.
After years of study and research, she successfully defended her doctoral thesis on May 2, 2026. According to Cheikh Anta Diop University, this accomplishment made her the first woman astrophysicist in Senegal.
Her research focuses on phenomena observed on Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar system. By studying these events, scientists can learn more about the history and evolution of the Universe.
Salma Sylla Mbaye also takes part in initiatives that encourage young people to explore science. Her journey shows that curiosity, determination, and hard work can help turn big dreams into reality.
