Aerospace startup Space Kidz India has launched the ShakthiSAT mission, aiming to train 12,000 girls aged 14-18 from 108 countries in space technology, targeting a satellite launch under ISRO’s Chandrayaan-4 mission in 2026. A prototype presentation will be made to Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this year or early next year. This initiative not only emphasizes skill development in the realm of space but also seeks to inspire and empower young women globally.
Training Overview
The ShakthiSAT mission includes 120 hours of online training focused on various aspects of space technology, payload development, and spacecraft systems. Following this, 108 students—one from each participating country—will be selected for hands-on training in India between June and August next year. This effort aims to nurture talent and foster international collaboration, igniting interest in space science among young girls worldwide.
International Collaboration
Countries participating in this initiative include the UK, UAE, Brazil, Kenya, Australia, France, Greece, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan. Srimathy Kesan, the mission lead, expressed her excitement about the initiative, highlighting its potential to benefit not just India but the entire world through the transformative power of space exploration.
Space Kidz India’s Vision
Chennai-based Space Kidz India has previously launched over 18 NSLVs (BalloonSats), three suborbital payloads, and four orbital satellites, making it the first organization globally to involve high school and college students in satellite launches. As an ambassador to NASA, ESA, and GCTC Russia, Space Kidz India aims to inspire future leaders, scientists, and innovators in space exploration, building on a legacy of promoting education and collaboration in this vital field.