Gujarat Student Vipa Bariya Selected for Mission ShaktiSAT
Mahisagar's Vipa Bariya becomes the only female student from Gujarat selected for the prestigious Mission ShaktiSAT space programme.
In a remarkable achievement for the state, Vipa Bariya, a young student from Padhara village in Mahisagar district, has been selected for the prestigious Mission ShaktiSAT. Out of the 20 students chosen from across India, Vipa stands out as the only female student representing Gujarat.
A Dream Aimed at the Stars
Currently studying in Class 11, Vipa has harbored a deep fascination with space science since her childhood. Her ambitions are set high, as she dreams of carving a path as either a pilot or an astronaut. This journey of discovery was fueled by the unwavering support of her father, Gulabbhai Bariya, a primary school teacher who teaches Mathematics and Environmental Studies, and her mentor, Deepika Sharma.
International Training and Hands-on Experience
The Mission ShaktiSAT programme, organised by Space Kidz India, provided Vipa with a global platform. She attended an intensive 10-day international workshop at Gautam Buddha University in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, held from August 22 to 31. The scale of the event was immense, with approximately 12,000 female students from 108 different countries participating.
During this period, Vipa gained invaluable practical expertise in:
- Satellite Coding: Learning the logic behind space technology.
- Design: Understanding the structural requirements of satellites.
- Assembly: Engaging in the physical construction of space components.
Vipa's dedication was evident as she successfully completed all 21 modules and 550 lessons within the required timeframe during the competition's first phase. Her hard work was also recognised on the global stage, where she was honored with a special award and trophy.
Upcoming Opportunities and ISRO Visit
The journey for this young scientist is far from over. Vipa is set to participate in a space technology event organised by Viasat in New Delhi, scheduled from October 26 to 28. Furthermore, as the satellite launch date approaches, she may receive the incredible opportunity to visit the ISRO space centre at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh.
Reflecting on her journey, Vipa shared her excitement, stating that being selected for Mission ShaktiSAT and the prospect of visiting ISRO feels like a dream come true for someone who has always been captivated by satellite technology.