Kalpana Chawla grew up in a middle-class family in Karnal, Haryana, India. She was inspired by the night sky visible from her family’s rooftop, which sparked her interest in aviation and space exploration from a young age.
She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Punjab Engineering College in Chandigarh in 1982. Following her passion for aviation, she moved to the United States to pursue her Master of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington in 1984. She completed her Doctorate in Philosophy in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 1988.
First Space Mission (STS-87) : In 1997, Kalpana Chawla flew aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia on mission STS-87. During this mission, she served as a mission specialist and primary robotic arm operator, conducting various experiments in the US Microgravity Laboratory.
*Second Space Mission (STS-107) : Her second space mission, STS-107, took place in 2003. On this mission, she was a mission specialist and primary robotic arm operator aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia. Tragically, the mission ended in disaster upon re-entry into Earth's atmosphere, resulting in the loss of all seven crew members including Kalpana Chawla
Kalpana Chawla’s career marked several historic milestones, including being the first woman of Indian origin in space. Her achievements paved the way for future generations of women and Indians to pursue careers in aerospace and space exploration.
Throughout her career, Kalpana Chawla made significant contributions to aerospace technology and scientific research. Her work on both missions contributed valuable data to various fields, including materials sciences, biology, and astronomy.
Kalpana Chawla's legacy extends far beyond her achievements in space. She continues to inspire millions around the world, particularly in India, where she is celebrated as a national hero and role model for aspiring scientists and astronauts.