The International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2025 became a defining moment for India and for women in space as Mission ShakthiSAT, the world’s first all-female lunar mission, took center stage. Led by Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Founder of Space Kidz India and the visionary behind Mission ShakthiSAT, alongside Sukruti Narayanan, Global Head of Partnerships and Australian Ambassador for the Mission, the team achieved an extraordinary series of diplomatic, academic, and technological milestones that captured global attention.
From forging international partnerships to reshaping the conversation on inclusivity in space, their impact resonated far beyond the conference halls of Sydney.
A Stellar Representation on the Global Stage
Throughout the Congress, Dr. Kesan and Sukruti Narayanan were at the heart of pivotal discussions shaping the future of space exploration. The duo:
- Briefed Hon. Tim Ayres, Australia’s Federal Minister for Science & Technology, on Mission ShakthiSAT’s groundbreaking progress and its global outreach.
- Advocated for stronger India–Australia collaboration in space technology at a bilateral roundtable led by the Chairman of IN-SPACe and the Head of the Australian Space Agency.
- Presented the mission to the Malaysian Minister of Communications, who praised its vision of empowering young girls from rural and underrepresented communities.
- Strengthened global diplomatic ties through engagements with ambassadors from Nepal, Paraguay, France, Bolivia, Colombia, and Australia.
In the scientific arena, Mission ShakthiSAT’s team presented two acclaimed research papers, earning appreciation from international researchers and industry experts. The mission’s CubeSAT and rocket programs drew keen interest from investors and institutions alike, culminating in four major Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed with organisations in Australia, the US, France, and the UAE, a monumental leap toward global collaboration.
Applause from Icons and Innovators
The mission’s trailblazing efforts didn’t go unnoticed. Steve Waugh, former Australian cricket captain, personally commended the initiative for its social and educational impact, calling it an inspiring example of how science can drive empowerment. Industry leaders and space-tech CEOs echoed this sentiment, recognising Mission ShakthiSAT as a pioneering model for cultivating future talent in aerospace innovation.
India’s High Commissioner to Australia, Mr. Gopal Bagalay, also lauded the initiative, celebrating it as a symbol of India’s growing leadership in inclusive space exploration.
Breaking Barriers, Building Futures
Space Kidz India made history as the only women-led organisation in the Indian Pavilion at IAC 2025 — a powerful statement on gender representation in science, technology, and innovation.
“This milestone reinforces our belief that space is not bound by borders — it unites us all,” said Dr. Srimathy Kesan, reflecting on the mission’s journey. “Through Mission ShakthiSAT, thousands of young women are learning that their dreams can truly reach the stars.”
Adding to that vision, Sukruti Narayanan shared, “Bringing community leaders into the SpaceTech dialogue is the only way to make this multi-trillion-dollar industry truly inclusive. My mission is to make Space accessible for all — not just a few — because when communities take part, the cosmos belongs to everyone.”
Empowering the Next Generation
As a proud ambassador of India’s space innovation and women’s empowerment, Sukruti Narayanan continues to inspire a new generation of changemakers. Her leadership has opened extraordinary global pathways, proving that space exploration isn’t just about rockets and research, but also about representation, resilience, and redefining what’s possible.
At Empowered BWB her mission is deeply resonant.
“We take immense pride in Sukruti Narayanan, whose leadership is opening extraordinary global pathways for our communities. We stand with her in making Space accessible for everyone, everywhere.”
Mission ShakthiSAT’s success at IAC 2025 is not just a triumph for India, it’s a triumph for every woman who dares to dream beyond the sky.
Empowered Brave Women Building Futures 