Kalpana Chawla - The Astroaut

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This is the story of Dr. Kalpana Chawla, the first Indian woman in space.

Kalpana Chawla was born in India. As a young girl she became very interest in airplanes. She was told only boys could become engineers, but she did not listen. She completed a degree in engineering in India and Masters and a Doctorate in Aerospace Engineering in the USA.

In 1988, she joined NASA as a scientist. In 1997 she became the first Indian woman in space when she flew aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia on a two-week mission. In 2000, Kalpana was again selected to fly on the Space Shuttle Columbia. This mission, which began on January 16, 2003, lasted sixteen days.

Upon reentry to the earth's atmosphere, on February 1, 2003, the spacecraft broke up due to excessive heat. The astronauts did not survive.

The world mourned the loss of the Columbia crew. One of the many ways the astronauts were honored is known as the "Celestial Memorial." Seven asteroids in the outer asteroid belt were named for them, one for each crew member. Kalpana's legacy has inspired many women in India to become pilots. Kalpana believed in herself and followed her dreams . . . all the way to outer space!