No limit to space exploration

Our curiosity to explore the unknown—from the deep waters of the ocean to the vastness of outer space—has led to major breakthroughs in both expanses. In July, space enthusiasts have reason to celebrate the unthinkable. The possibility of space tourism, as demonstrated by the historic launches of the Virgin Galactic’s Unity and Blue Origin’s New Shepard’s crafts, emerges as a feasible reality rather than a dream for future generations. Without the significant technological advancements we have achieved from space research, the idea of space tourism would be impossible.

When most people think of professions related to space exploration, images of astronauts are often the first to come to mind. Although astronauts undoubtedly play a crucial role in space missions, there are also many interesting careers that are just as crucial and exciting as an astronaut’s job duties. For example, there are STEM careers that study in-space propulsion, develop communication strategies, and even investigate the dynamics of lunar dust. It is only through the combination of discoveries from different studies are we able to advance and achieve the inconceivable.

Meet BP Dakshayani, a rocket scientist who led the Indian Space Research Organization’s (ISRO) Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM). MOM succeeded in guiding a space probe into Mars’s orbit. Its success granted India world recognition for being the fourth space agency to orbit Mars. The probe serves as a prototype for future spacecrafts to be used in interplanetary missions.

MOM led to significant advancements in design, communication, and navigation that will serve future space exploration. As long as we don’t limit our research boundaries, there are no limits to what humanity can achieve!