The international satellite programme “Mission ShaktiSAT” was officially launched today, with a Maldivian student representing the Maldives.

The programme, organised by Space Kids India, with Women in Management (WIM)as Country Ambassador, will run until 31 August. Aminath Noya Sameeh, a student of Villa International High School, is representing the Maldives. Noya recently ranked first nationwide in the O-Level examinations and has expressed an interest in science and computer technology, with plans to pursue computer science.

WIM President Minha Faiz Rashad is accompanying Noya as the Maldives’ ambassador for the programme. Sosun Fihaara and Centurion are supporting the trip.

Mission ShaktiSAT brings together girls from India and 108 other countries to receive training in building two satellites, “ShaktiSAT-LEO” and “ShaktiSAT-Moon”. The programme provides practical experience in satellite development, payload design, systems engineering and space missions.

More than 12,000 students are taking part in the programme. The satellites developed through the mission are scheduled to be launched on 11 October, while participating students will also contribute to the development of a CubeSat planned for deployment into lunar orbit next year.