1) How did Kalpana's Life take shape ? Discuss her early life and reading out to NASA ?
☞︎︎︎ 𝐴𝑛𝑠 :
Kalpana Chawla's life took shape through a remarkable journey from her early years to reaching NASA:
**Early Life:**
1. **Birth and Childhood:** Kalpana Chawla was born on March 17, 1962, in Karnal, Haryana, India. Growing up in a small town, she showed a keen interest in flying from a young age.
2. **Educational Foundation:** Kalpana pursued her early education in Karnal. Her academic prowess in the field of science paved the way for further studies in aeronautical engineering.
3. **Aeronautical Engineering:** She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Punjab Engineering College in 1982, marking the beginning of her academic journey in aerospace.
**Journey to NASA:**
1. **Pursuit of Higher Education:** Kalpana moved to the United States for higher studies, obtaining a Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington in 1984.
2. **Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering:** She continued her academic pursuits, completing her Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Colorado in 1988. This laid the foundation for her expertise in the field.
3. **Path to NASA:** Kalpana Chawla's journey to NASA began when she joined the Ames Research Center. Her work focused on powered-lift computational fluid dynamics.
4. **Selection as an Astronaut:** In 1995, Kalpana was selected by NASA for the astronaut program. Her exceptional skills and dedication led her to become the first woman of Indian origin in space.
Kalpana Chawla's life took shape through a combination of early passion, academic excellence, and determination. Her journey from a small town in India to NASA exemplifies the power of dreams and hard work.
2) Draw a character sketch Kalpana Chawla. (Learners are advised to prepare a diagram as well, portraying the characteristics of Kalpana Chawla's legacy. ) Upload the photo of it with the theoretical answers.
☞︎︎︎ 𝐴𝑛𝑠 :
Kalpana Chawla (March 17, 1962 – February 1, 2003) was born in Karnal, India. She was the first Indian - American astronaut and first Indian woman in space. She first flew on Space Shuttle Columbia in 1997 as a mission specialist and primary robotic arm operator. In 2003, Kalpana Chawla was one of the seven crew members killed in the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster.
Kalpana Chawla completed her earlier schooling at Tagore Bal Niketan Sr. Sec. School, Karnal. She completed Bachelor of Engineering degree in Aeronautical Engineering at Punjab Engineering College at Chandigarh in 1982. She moved to the United States in 1982 and obtained a M.S. degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington in 1984. Kalpana Chawla went on to earn a second M.S. degree in 1986 and a PhD in aerospace engineering in 1988 from the University of Colorado at Boulder.
Later that year she began working at the NASA Ames Research Center as vice president of Overset Methods, Inc. where she did CFD research on Vertical/Short Takeoff and Landing concepts. Kalpana Chawla held a Certificated Flight Instructor rating for airplanes, gliders and Commercial Pilot licenses for single and multi-engine airplanes, seaplanes and gliders.
3) Discuss the social barriers & restrictions you have faced to date ?
☞︎︎︎ 𝐴𝑛𝑠 :
At present, there are many restrictions and obstacles in the society. There are many restrictions especially for girls. According to me, girls are given less importance than boys. Also if the boy wants to do any place or any activity he immediately gives his consent. But when the girl talks about it, she is rejected. Why so ? So, according to me this is a hindrance.
4) Does Kalpana's life inspire you? How ?
☞︎︎︎ 𝐴𝑛𝑠 :
However, I can acknowledge that Kalpana Chawla's life serves as a source of inspiration for many due to her determination, achievements, and contributions to space exploration. Her journey highlights the pursuit of dreams, overcoming challenges, and breaking barriers, which can be motivational for individuals aspiring to excel in their respective fields.