Memories of Kalpana Chawla: A legacy of courage, innovation and inspiration!
While the whole world is waiting for the safe return of Sunita Williams, it becomes imperative to reflect on the extraordinary legacy of another Indian-American astronaut, Kalpana Chawla. On the occasion of her birth anniversary on March 17, we remember the life and contributions of Kalpana Chawla, whose story continues to be a source of inspiration for millions even today.
Kalpana Chawla’s Journey: From Karnal to Space
Kalpana Chawla was born on March 17, 1962, in Karnal, Haryana. Raised in a family that gave the utmost importance to education, Kalpana’s journey to becoming an astronaut began at a very young age. She completed her schooling at Tagore School, Karnal in 1976 and later received a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Punjab Engineering College, India in 1982. Due to her keen interest in aerospace engineering, she obtained a master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Texas in 1984 and a PhD in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Colorado in 1988.
Furthering her commitment to space exploration, Kalpana started working at NASA’s Ames Research Center in 1988 and in 1994, she was selected as an astronaut by NASA. Her selection was a new beginning, which was soon to make its mark across the world.
A pioneer in NASA
In March 1995, Kalpana Chawla reported to the Johnson Space Center as NASA’s 15th astronaut class. In November 1996, she was assigned as a mission specialist and lead robotic arm operator on the Space Shuttle STS-87. In the same mission, in 1997, Kalpana Chawla achieved the historic feat of becoming the first woman of Indian origin to travel in space, which became an unforgettable milestone in Indian and global space exploration history.
Her second flight, STS-107, in 2003, unfortunately ended abruptly. Kalpana and her seven-member crew died when the Space Shuttle Columbia exploded during re-entry on February 1, 2003, destroying the spacecraft just 16 minutes before the mission was to end. They spent 16 days on the mission and completed 80 scientific experiments, but their endeavour was tragically cut short.
A Lasting Legacy
Kalpana Chawla’s achievements are not limited to her technical expertise and tenure as an astronaut. Her dedication to space exploration and the pursuit of knowledge has left a profound impact on countless people. Kalpana not only contributed to the field of aerospace engineering, but she also became an icon of inspiration for women.
Kalpana Chawla continues to receive tributes from various fields, saluting her pioneering spirit. Dr Jyoti Eknath Gaikwad said, “Remembering India’s ‘Space Star’ Kalpana Chawla, her journey as the first Indian-origin woman astronaut has inspired women worldwide to believe in their dreams.”
Mallikarjun Kharge also paid his respects to her on social media, saying, “On her birth anniversary, we remember Kalpana Chawla, who significantly elevated India’s global standing in space exploration. Her legacy is a powerful symbol of women’s empowerment and gender equality, and she will always remain a source of inspiration for millions.”
Kalpana’s life proves that determination, courage, and the passion to overcome obstacles can enable any individual to achieve extraordinary accomplishments. Her name is etched in history, not just for her phenomenal work but also for the hope and inspiration she generated.
