Only Talent Matters at ISRO: Woman Behind Aditya L1 Mission
India’s space agency, ISRO, breaks barriers with the launch of the Aditya L1 satellite, led by scientist Nigar Shaji. As the project director for India’s first space-based solar observatory, Shaji emphasizes that talent is the only factor that matters at ISRO, debunking claims of gender bias within the organization. Shaji is just one of the many accomplished women making strides at ISRO, including M Vanitha, Thenmozhi Selvi K, and Kalpana K.
The Aditya L1 satellite has endured a four-month-long journey, covering over 3.7 million km, to achieve its intended position for uninterrupted solar study. With only a few countries exploring space-based solar observatories, India now joins the exclusive club.
Shaji firmly asserts that there is no glass ceiling for women at ISRO, stating, at ISRO, only talent matters, and gender plays no role. Working alongside dedicated male and female colleagues, she highlights the collaborative efforts in the pursuit of scientific excellence.
Aditya is a complex scientific satellite, Shaji explains. After nine years of exhaustive work, this achievement serves as a testament to her determination. However, she acknowledges the unique challenges posed by collaborating with diverse work cultures from various Indian scientific institutions.
Shaji’s passion for engineering stemmed from her father, Sheik Meeran, a mathematics graduate turned farmer. Hailing from the rural district of Tamil Nadu, she drew inspiration from Nobel laureate Marie Curie, ultimately leading her to a successful career at ISRO.
Having started as a spacecraft test engineer, Shaji has climbed the career ladder with remarkable contributions. She currently holds the position of programme director at the Indian Space Research Organisation, responsible for developing low-earth orbiting spacecraft and interplanetary missions. Additionally, she serves as the project director for the Aditya-L1 spacecraft, India’s first space-based solar observatory at the Sun-Earth Lagrangian point.
As Aditya L1 embarks on its mission to observe the Sun, ISRO confirms the satellite’s healthy condition and the initial arrival of scientific results. Equipped to provide forewarnings about solar activity, Aditya L1 promises invaluable insights.
Shaji shares advice for aspiring youngsters looking to join the captivating field of space technology. She emphasizes the importance of a strong support system, as the hours involved in complex interplanetary missions can be demanding. In her case, her mother provided the necessary support.
ISRO’s continued advancements in space research and exploration, spearheaded by talented individuals such as Nigar Shaji, reaffirm India’s prowess in the global arena. The organization’s commitment to equal opportunities and unwavering focus on talent showcase their dedication to progress.
With the successful launch of Aditya L1, India continues to make a mark in space exploration, affirming the nation’s scientific capabilities. As the world keeps a watchful eye on ISRO’s future projects, Nigar Shaji’s achievements stand as a reminder that gender is no barrier when talent is the sole criterion at play.
