On This Day, India’s Daughter Took Her Second Space Flight, Which Became Her Final Journey

New Delhi: January 16 marks a remarkable chapter in India’s history, celebrating the achievements of a daughter who fulfilled her dream of becoming an astronaut in the United States. Kalpana Chawla, selected twice by NASA for space missions, embarked on her second journey to space on this day in 2003. She flew aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-107), conducting over 80 scientific experiments during the 16-day mission. Tragically, her return to Earth ended in disaster when the shuttle disintegrated on February 1, claiming the lives of Chawla and six other crew members.

A Childhood Inspired by the Skies
Born on March 17, 1962, in Karnal, Haryana, Kalpana Chawla displayed a fascination with the skies and aircraft from an early age. She pursued Aeronautical Engineering at Punjab Engineering College and later moved to the United States for higher studies. In 1994, she was selected by NASA as an astronaut. Her first space mission, STS-87 aboard the Columbia in 1997, made her the first woman of Indian origin to fly in space.

A Path to Dreams and Success
Kalpana Chawla once said, “The path to success in your dreams exists; all you need is the vision to find it and the courage to follow it.” Her inspiring journey continues to motivate young minds around the world.

Legacy of Scientific Exploration
During her second mission, Chawla’s work contributed to over 80 scientific experiments. Following the tragic Columbia accident, she was posthumously honored in both India and the United States. Numerous institutions, scholarships, and even spacecraft have been named in her memory, ensuring that her legacy and words continue to inspire generations.