Mahima Rajput, a 14-year-old Grade 10 student, was selected from India to participate in Mission ShakthiSAT, an international student space program with participants from 108 countries. As part of the program, she will travel to Delhi to participate in satellite building activities with other selected students ahead of the mission’s scheduled launch in October.Mahima said she learned about the opportunity through her principal and tutor, and she signed up for the program. She completed the required training before being selected to represent India on international assignments.Training content covers space science and satellite technologyMission ShakthiSAT curriculum consists of 21 modules and 365 lessons designed to introduce students to science, satellite technology and space missions. Mahima said the courses enhanced participants’ understanding of scientific concepts and provided practical knowledge in satellite development.The program also includes training in satellite design and construction, exposing students to the different stages of developing space missions.Delhi program brings together students from 108 countriesAccording to the mission schedule, selected participants will assemble in Delhi on August 23 for satellite integration activities. Students from 108 countries are expected to work together on this phase of the project before the program launches in October.Mission organizers said two satellites will be developed as part of the project. One satellite is intended for low-Earth orbit, while the other is part of a planned lunar mission. According to the mission plan, one satellite is expected to land on the lunar surface and the other satellite will orbit the moon.International initiative by space children indiaLaunched by Space Kidz India on January 16, 2025, Mission ShakthiSAT is an international educational program focused on space science and student engagement. Conceived by Dr. Srimaty Kesan, the program aims to encourage girls to pursue learning opportunities in science, technology and space studies.The initiative brings together students, educators, scientists and institutions from around the world through a structured learning platform. Organizers say more than 8,300 students have participated in the Mission ShakthiSAT learning ecosystem, and the project has also established partnerships with universities, aerospace organizations and research institutions in multiple countries.The mission is scheduled to be launched in October and aims to provide school students with practical experience in satellite development while promoting international cooperation in aerospace education.
