How an Indian start-up sparked a global girls’ space mission
The Hindu
ShakthiSAT is a global space mission that aims to empower 12,000 girls through hands-on training in building real satellites and payloads, leading the world’s first female-driven lunar mission
If there’s one thing that keeps Dr. Srimathy Kesan going, it is her “unwavering desire to create a platform for girls who are curious about space exploration and deep tech”.
The CEO and founder of Space Kidz India, a Chennai-based aerospace and defence start-up pioneering in the launch of small satellites and spacecraft, is all smiles as she talks about Mission ShakthiSAT — the first-ever female-led lunar satellite mission, supported by ISRO, IN-SPACe, and the UK-based Meridian Space Command.
Developed with a budget of ₹150 crore, the mission aims to train 12,000 girls from government schools in India and across 108 countries. The programme offers 120 hours of online training for students aged 14 to 18, with a focus on payload development, space technology, and spacecraft systems.
The mission was officially launched on January 16, 2025.
ShakthiSAT’s vision is not just about technical goals; it represents empowerment, innovation, and inclusivity.
“There’s a myth that rockets and satellites are predominantly for boys, and girls were discouraged from coming into this deep tech industry for ages,” Srimathy says.
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