In a groundbreaking achievement for both space exploration and gender equality, the ShakthiSAT mission stands as the first-ever female-led lunar satellite mission. Supported by ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation), IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center), and the UK-based Meridian Space Command, this one-of-a-kind mission seeks to redefine the future of space exploration.
ShakthiSAT’s ambition extends beyond its technical aspects, serving as a symbol of empowerment, inclusivity, and innovation. The mission is spearheaded by Dr Srimathy Kesan, the founder and CEO of Space Kidz India.
In conversation with an exclusive conversation with FinancialExpress.com, Dr Kesan says, “ShakthiSAT is more than just a satellite; it is a symbol of empowerment, inclusivity, and innovation.” She highlights the critical need to bridge the gender gap in space and STEM fields, where only 19 percent of girls pursue STEM education, and just 14 percent enter space-related professions. “By encouraging girls to participate in STEM, ShakthiSAT aims to inspire young women to join an industry driven by creativity and multitasking,” she adds.
In her words the mission has also captured the cultural and astronomical significance of the number 108. Ancient Indian astronomy notes that the Moon’s diameter multiplied by 108 closely approximates the distance between the Earth and the Moon. The same number also connects the Sun’s diameter, which is 108 times that of the Earth. By involving youth from 108 countries, ShakthiSAT emphasizes the importance of global collaboration and shared goals in space exploration. Dr Kesan added, “This alignment underscores humanity’s deep connection with the cosmos, reflecting India’s rich spiritual and scientific heritage, while reinforcing the idea that space exploration is a unifying endeavour.”
This unprecedented mission involves the participation of women from 108 different nations, making it a truly global initiative. Women leading these efforts from countries including Australia, the UK, Uruguay, Paraguay, El Salvador, Argentina, Brazil, to Chile, Costa Rica, Armenia, Bolivia, Denmark, Hungary, Mexico, Mali, Malta, Peru, the Philippines, Malaysia, Panama, Morocco, UAE, Venezuela, Uzbekistan, Guatemala, Haiti, Jamaica, Slovenia, Slovakia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Spain, Tanzania, Switzerland, Norway, Tunisia and Colombia and more are not only pioneers in their countries but also advocates for the inclusion of girls and young women in the space industry. Mariana García, a key figure in Uruguay’s space sector, brings with her over 15 years of experience in aviation security and space law. She serves as an advisor to the Uruguayan Air Force and is a member of the Space Affairs Commission. Along with her expertise, García plays a pivotal role in bringing her country into this mission, which she views as a powerful opportunity for international collaboration and peace.
Representing Chile, Victoria Valdivia Cerda of the European Space Policy Institute in conversation with FinancialExpress.com expresses the honour of contributing to ShakthiSAT. “Being chosen to represent Chile in this mission symbolizes the growing recognition of our role in global space activities,” Cerda shared. Her work focuses on space policy and fostering international collaboration, especially in the intersection of space and Antarctica, a region crucial for global space security. As part of her commitment to this mission, Cerda will select Chilean girls to participate in introductory space science classes. “This mission will inspire young girls and provide them with opportunities to become the future leaders of the space sector,” she said.
In Brazil, the impact of ShakthiSAT is already being felt. Isadora, the first Brazilian woman selected as an astronaut candidate by NASA, is also actively involved in the mission. She is responsible for selecting Brazilian girls to join the mission and participate in space science education. Through her role, Isadora hopes to inspire young girls in Brazil to pursue careers in space, where women remain underrepresented, comprising only 13.7 percent of the workforce in the aerospace industry. “Being selected to represent Brazil in this mission is an honour, as it demonstrates the power of collaboration and the universal reach of science,” Isadora said. She’s also secured a partnership with the Brazilian Space Agency to amplify the mission’s impact through social media, aiming to inspire the next generation of scientists.
Paraguay’s involvement in ShakthiSAT is led by Hebe Romero, who has served as the General Secretary of Paraguay’s Aerospace Research Center and is the General Director of Legal and International Affairs for the Paraguayan Space Agency. Romero has been instrumental in Paraguay’s contribution to space law and international cooperation. She has worked as an arbitrator for space-related disputes and now plays an important role in advocating for Paraguay’s participation in ShakthiSAT. Romero highlighted the importance of such international projects in bringing together countries to collaborate on a shared vision of peace, scientific discovery, and global unity.
ShakthiSAT is not just a satellite project—it’s a movement for change. It highlights the importance of global unity in space exploration, and with the involvement of 108 countries and a focus on empowering women, the mission is set to inspire the next generation of female leaders in space and beyond.
As Dr Kesan concludes, “This mission will help girls from rural areas and smaller countries dream big. It’s about breaking barriers and creating a future where diversity and equal opportunity drive groundbreaking advancements in space exploration.”