Fourteen-year-old Mahima Rajput, a Class 10 student, has been selected from India to participate in Mission ShakthiSAT, an international student space programme involving participants from 108 countries. As part of the initiative, she will travel to Delhi to join other selected students in satellite-building activities ahead of the mission’s planned launch in October.Mahima said she learnt about the opportunity through her school principal and guidance teacher, after which she registered for the programme. She completed the required training before being selected to represent India in the international mission.Training covered space science and satellite technologyThe Mission ShakthiSAT curriculum consists of 21 modules and 365 lessons designed to introduce students to science, satellite technology and space missions. Mahima said the lessons strengthened participants’ understanding of scientific concepts and provided practical knowledge of satellite development.The programme also included training on satellite design and construction, giving students exposure to the different stages involved in developing a space mission.Delhi programme to bring 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 during this phase of the programme before the planned launch in October.Mission organisers have stated that two satellites will be developed as part of the project. One satellite is intended for Low Earth Orbit, while another forms part of the planned Moon mission. According to the mission plan, one satellite is expected to land on the lunar surface and another will orbit the Moon.International initiative led by Space Kidz IndiaMission ShakthiSAT was launched on January 16, 2025, by Space Kidz India as an international educational initiative focused on space science and student participation. The programme was conceived by Dr Srimathy Kesan and is designed to encourage girls to pursue learning opportunities in science, technology and space research.The initiative has brought together students, educators, scientists and institutions from around the world through a structured learning platform. Organisers said more than 8,300 students have participated in the Mission ShakthiSAT learning ecosystem, while the programme has established collaborations with universities, aerospace organisations and research institutions across multiple countries.The mission is scheduled for launch in October and is intended to provide school students with practical experience in satellite development while promoting international cooperation in space education.
