A 14-year-old from Andhra Pradesh, Kandula Jessie, has been chosen as one of India’s representatives for Mission ShakthiSAT, the first global all-girls lunar CubeSat initiative, amidst a competitive selection process involving nearly 12,000 participants from 108 countries.
In a significant achievement highlighting the potential of young female scientists, Kandula Jessie, a 14-year-old student from Zilla Parishad Girls High School (ZPGHS) in Dhavaleswaram, Andhra Pradesh, has been selected as one of the 20 participants from India for Mission ShakthiSAT. This initiative is recognized as the world’s first global all-girls lunar CubeSat mission, aiming to empower young women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Jessie was selected from a competitive pool of nearly 12,000 girls from 108 countries, marking her as the sole representative from Andhra Pradesh in the final Indian contingent. Her journey into this prestigious program began when her Physical Science teacher and Atal Tinkering Lab in-charge, Manimala, identified her interest in science and innovation. Last year, Manimala registered Jessie for the program, which ultimately led to her remarkable selection.
Encouraging Peer Participation
Recognizing the significance of this opportunity, Jessie also motivated eight other girls from her school to apply for the program. However, they soon discovered that the online coursework had commenced. In response, Manimala contacted the program coordinators, successfully securing an additional opportunity for her students, which allowed Jessie to continue her participation in the selection process.
Balancing Studies with Advanced Learning
While preparing for her Class 10 examinations, Jessie committed to attending online classes for Mission ShakthiSAT every day after school. She has reportedly completed around 50 to 60 percent of the program thus far. Mission ShakthiSAT comprises approximately 550 sessions and 21 modules, covering various subjects including satellite systems, propulsion, thermodynamics, and space technology. Jessie acknowledged the challenges she faced, stating, “I found many concepts difficult initially because they were far more advanced than what we study in school, but I continued attending the classes every day,” as she explained to The Times of India.
Improving Communication Skills
The selection process for the program involved comprehensive online learning modules, a one-hour interview with scientists and program coordinators, and a one-minute video presentation emphasizing the importance of Mission ShakthiSAT and STEM education. As the interview was conducted entirely in English, Jessie focused on enhancing her communication skills with assistance from her teachers and educational videos. She expressed her feelings of anxiety during the interview with international experts, stating, “I was nervous while speaking to international scientists. I never imagined that a government school student like me would be selected,” according to her comments reported by The Times of India.
Family Background and Support
Jessie’s family expressed immense pride in her achievement. Her mother, Aruna, shared that financial constraints had previously necessitated shifting Jessie from a private school to a government school. “My husband is a carpenter, and we have faced many hardships. Watching our daughter speak confidently with international scientists was one of the proudest moments of our lives,” Aruna stated.
Upcoming Training and Launch Plans
The next phase of the Mission ShakthiSAT program will commence in New Delhi on August 23, involving practical training and celebrations for National Space Day. Jessie expressed her eagerness to participate in the event, which is expected to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the training, Jessie will collaborate with scientists on critical aspects of satellite design, payload development, and mission operations. The lunar CubeSat developed by the students is scheduled for launch from Sriharikota on October 11.
Reflecting on her selection, Jessie conveyed her strengthened belief in the power of hard work to achieve her dreams, particularly her aspiration to join the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). “I want to support my parents and make my teachers and school proud,” she remarked during the interview.
Community Recognition
Jessie’s achievement has garnered attention and praise from notable figures, including Rajya Sabha MP and TDP National Vice President Sana Sathish Babu. He congratulated Jessie, remarking that her success represents a proud moment for Andhra Pradesh. Babu highlighted the broader implications of Jessie’s story, stating, “Stories like hers reflect the vision championed by N. Chandrababu Naidu and Education Minister Nara Lokesh, giving government school students world-class exposure and the confidence to dream big. That’s how this transformation quietly takes place.” He further emphasized, “Jessie isn’t just chasing the Moon; she’s inspiring an entire generation to reach the stars.”
