India’s ShakthiSAT mission is an international space education initiative led by Chennai-based SpaceKidz India, aiming to provide space technology training to approximately 12,000 girls from 108 countries. The programme is designed to encourage girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) by introducing them to satellite design, electronics, programming, spacecraft systems and payload development. Led by Dr. Srimathy Kesan, founder of SpaceKidz India, the initiative aims to give students practical exposure to satellite technology and inspire the next generation of women scientists and engineers. Students from government schools and different educational backgrounds are also expected to benefit from the programme, helping expand access to space education beyond major cities. Through international collaboration, ShakthiSAT seeks to connect young girls from different countries and encourage them to work together in the field of space science. The initiative also highlights India’s growing contribution to space education and student participation in aerospace projects. According to the announced schedule, the first satellite was planned for launch on October 11, 2026, from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. However, the actual launch and its completion must be verified through official announcements from the mission organisers and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). ShakthiSAT is led by SpaceKidz India and should not automatically be described as an ISRO-led mission. If successfully implemented, the initiative could provide valuable learning opportunities for thousands of girls and encourage greater female participation in the global space industry.
