- By Aditi Priya Singh
- Wed, 19 Mar 2025 04:29 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Indian Origin Astronauts Who Worked For NASA: India has always produced brilliant minds who have contributed to space exploration and several Indian-origin astronauts have made their mark at NASA. These astronauts have not only achieved great success but also inspired millions with their dedication and hard work. From Kalpana Chawla, the first Indian-origin woman in space, to Sunita Williams, who spent a record 286 days in space before returning to Earth in 2024, their journeys are remarkable. Other notable astronauts like Raja Chari and Sirisha Bandla have also played significant roles in space missions.
Top Indian Origin Astronauts Who Worked For NASA
Their achievements in education, training and space exploration show how determination and passion can lead to extraordinary success. Whether it's working on the International Space Station, contributing to scientific research, or taking part in space tourism, these astronauts have made India proud. This article explores the inspiring lives, education, and journeys of top Indian-origin astronauts who have worked for NASA.
Sunita Williams Family, Education And Journey To NASA
Sunita Williams (Image: Instagram)
Born in Ohio, USA, Sunita Williams is an Indian-American astronaut. Ursuline Bonnie, her mother, is Slovenian and her father, Deepak Pandya is originally from Gujarat, India. She pursued her education in physical science and later earned a degree in engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy. After more than 300 days in space, Sunita, who joined NASA in 1998, became one of the most seasoned astronauts. In addition, she has set records for female spacewalks. Aspiring astronauts everywhere are still motivated by her accomplishments, bravery and dedication.
Kalpana Chawla Life History
Kalpana Chawla (Image: Instagram)
The first Indian woman to travel to space was Kalpana Chawla. Born in Karnal, Haryana, India, she developed a strong love for flying at an early age. Before relocating to the USA for further education, she studied aerospace engineering in India. She joined NASA and became an astronaut after receiving her doctorate. Kalpana was a member of the Space Shuttle Columbia mission, but she tragically died in the Columbia accident in 2003. Millions of young aspirants in India and beyond are still motivated by her enduring legacy.
Who is Sirisha Bandla and her family background?
Born in Andhra Pradesh, India, Sirisha Bandla is an Indian-American astronaut who subsequently relocated to the US. Before joining Virgin Galactic, she worked in the space industry and pursued a degree in aeronautical engineering. As part of a private space tourism mission in 2021, she became the second woman of Indian descent to fly into space. Young minds who aspire to achieve greatness are inspired by Sirisha's journey, which demonstrates her commitment to space exploration and her contributions to the commercial space industry.
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NASA astronaut Raja Chari's family history, education and more
An astronaut of Indian descent, Raja Chari was chosen by NASA. He was born to a Telangana-born Indian father in the United States. With a solid academic background, he attended MIT for further studies after graduating with a degree in engineering from the U.S. Air Force Academy. He flew as a pilot in the U.S. Air Force before becoming an astronaut. Raja Chari participated in NASA SpaceX's Crew-3 mission to the International Space Station in 2021. He is an inspiration to many would-be astronauts because of his commitment to science and space exploration.
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