Chapter 4: An Indian-American Woman in Space: Kalpana Chawla

Introduction

"An Indian-American Woman in Space: Kalpana Chawla" is a biographical account that celebrates the life and achievements of Kalpana Chawla, the first Indian-origin woman to go to space. It serves as an inspiring story of determination, hard work, and the pursuit of dreams, despite challenges.

Important Note: The complete original text of the chapter cannot be provided here due to copyright restrictions. Below is a summary of Kalpana Chawla's life and journey to space, along with textbook questions and answers, which will help you understand this chapter.

Biography Summary: Kalpana Chawla's Journey to Space

**Kalpana Chawla** was born in **Karnal, Haryana, India**. As a child, she was fascinated by airplanes and dreamt of flying. After completing her schooling in India, she pursued her passion for aeronautical engineering. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in aeronautical engineering from Punjab Engineering College, India.

For higher studies, Kalpana moved to the United States. She obtained a Master of Science degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington in 1984, and a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 1988. After completing her studies, she began working at NASA's Ames Research Center. She also became a certified flight instructor and an instrument-rated commercial pilot for single and multi-engine land airplanes, seaplanes, and gliders.

In 1994, Kalpana Chawla was selected by NASA as an astronaut candidate. Her first space mission was on the **Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-87)**, from November 19 to December 5, **1997**. She was one of six crew members on board. During this 15-day, 16-hour, 34-minute mission, she traveled 10.45 million kilometres, orbiting the Earth 252 times. Her duties included deploying the Spartan satellite and conducting various experiments.

Kalpana often spoke about her dreams and experiences, inspiring many. She believed that "The path from dreams to success does exist. May you have the vision to find it, the courage to get on to it, and the perseverance to follow it." She stressed the importance of having a dream and the courage to pursue it.

Tragically, Kalpana Chawla's second space mission was also aboard the **Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-107)**, which disintegrated during re-entry into Earth's atmosphere on **February 1, 2003**. All seven crew members, including Kalpana, perished in the accident. The shuttle had spent 15 days, 22 hours, and 20 minutes in space, performing 80 experiments.

Despite the tragic end, Kalpana Chawla remains an inspiration. Her life story teaches us about dedication, breaking barriers, and the relentless pursuit of one's goals. She is remembered not just as an astronaut but as a pioneer who opened doors for many young individuals, especially girls, to dream big and reach for the stars.

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Textbook Questions and Answers for "An Indian-American Woman in Space: Kalpana Chawla"

I. Answer the following questions in a few words or one-two sentences.

  1. Where was Kalpana Chawla born?

    Kalpana Chawla was born in Karnal, Haryana, India.

  2. What was Kalpana's childhood dream?

    Kalpana's childhood dream was to fly and go to space.

  3. Which degrees did Kalpana earn in the United States?

    Kalpana earned a Master of Science and a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering in the United States.

  4. When was Kalpana Chawla selected as an astronaut candidate?

    Kalpana Chawla was selected as an astronaut candidate by NASA in 1994.

  5. What was the name of the Space Shuttle on her first mission?

    The name of the Space Shuttle on her first mission was Columbia (STS-87).

  6. On what date did the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster occur?

    The Space Shuttle Columbia disaster occurred on February 1, 2003.

II. Answer each question in a short paragraph (approx. 30 words).

  1. What inspired Kalpana Chawla to pursue a career in space?

    Kalpana Chawla was inspired by her fascination with airplanes and her childhood dream of flying and reaching the stars, which led her to pursue aeronautical engineering.

  2. Describe Kalpana Chawla's first space mission.

    Kalpana Chawla's first mission aboard Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-87) in 1997 lasted over 15 days, during which she orbited Earth 252 times and performed various experiments and duties.

  3. What did Kalpana Chawla say about the path from dreams to success?

    Kalpana Chawla said that the path from dreams to success exists, and one needs the vision to find it, the courage to get on it, and the perseverance to follow it.

  4. How is Kalpana Chawla remembered today?

    Kalpana Chawla is remembered as an inspiring pioneer, a symbol of determination, and a role model who encouraged many, especially girls, to pursue their ambitious dreams in science and space.

III. Answer each question in two or three paragraphs (100–150 words).

  1. Trace Kalpana Chawla's educational journey and how it prepared her for a career as an astronaut.

    Kalpana Chawla's educational journey was marked by her relentless pursuit of knowledge and her passion for aviation. She began her higher education in India, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in aeronautical engineering from Punjab Engineering College. This foundational degree provided her with the basic principles and understanding necessary for her chosen field. Recognizing the need for advanced specialization, she then moved to the United States to further her studies.

    In the U.S., Kalpana achieved a Master of Science degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington in 1984, followed by a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 1988. These advanced degrees equipped her with in-depth knowledge and research capabilities in complex areas of space technology and flight dynamics. Beyond academics, she also became a certified flight instructor and a commercial pilot for various aircraft. This combination of theoretical expertise in engineering and practical experience in flying prepared her exceptionally well for the rigorous demands of astronaut training and space missions at NASA.

  2. Despite the tragic end of her second mission, how does Kalpana Chawla continue to inspire people worldwide?

    Despite the tragic loss of Kalpana Chawla during the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster on February 1, 2003, her legacy continues to inspire millions worldwide. She is remembered not for the manner of her death, but for the remarkable life she led and the barriers she broke. As the first Indian-origin woman in space, she became a symbol of achievement, perseverance, and the boundless possibilities that open up when one dares to dream big. Her journey from a small town in India to the vastness of space demonstrates that with dedication and hard work, geographical and societal limitations can be overcome.

    Kalpana's message about pursuing one's dreams with "vision, courage, and perseverance" resonates deeply with young people, particularly girls in India and across the globe, encouraging them to enter STEM fields and aim for ambitious careers. Her life stands as a testament to human curiosity and the spirit of exploration. Educational institutions, scholarships, and even satellites have been named in her honor, ensuring that her pioneering spirit and contributions to space exploration are not forgotten. She remains a powerful role model, proving that gender or origin is no barrier to reaching for the highest aspirations.

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