All-female lunar mission secures 4 international MoUs, wins global acclaim, and earns praise from Australian leaders and space industry icons
Sydney, Australia – The International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2025) witnessed a proud moment for India and women in space when Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Founder of Mission ShakthiSAT, and Sukruti Narayanan, Global Head of Partnerships and Australian Ambassador, represented the world’s first all-female lunar mission on the global stage — achieving extraordinary outcomes across diplomacy, research, and innovation.
During the Congress, Dr.Srimathy Kesan and Sukruti Narayanan:
- Briefed the Federal Minister for Science & Technology, Hon. Tim Ayres, on the progress and international impact of Mission ShakthiSAT.
- Advocated for deeper India–Australia scientific collaboration at a bilateral round table led by the Chairman of IN-SPACe and the Head of the Australian Space Agency.
- Presented the Mission to the Malaysian Minister of Communications, who applauded its vision of empowering girls from rural and underrepresented communities.
- Engaged with ambassadors from Nepal, Paraguay, France, Bolivia, Colombia, and Australia, strengthening global diplomatic support.
- Presented two acclaimed research papers on the Mission, both warmly received by the international scientific community.
- Signed four major MoUs with organisations in Australia, the US, France, and the UAE, drawing investor and institutional interest in the Mission’s CubeSAT and rocket programs.
- Showcased the Mission to India’s High Commissioner to Australia, Mr. Gopal Bagalay.
- Received personal commendation from former Australian cricket captain Steve Waugh, recognising the Mission’s social and educational impact.
- Earned appreciation from global space CEOs and founders, who highlighted the initiative as a pioneering model for developing future space-tech talent.
Notably, Space Kidz India stood out as the only women-led organisation in the Indian Pavilion at IAC 2025 — a historic milestone for gender representation in space science.
“This milestone reinforces our belief that space is not bound by borders — it unites us all,” said Dr. Srimathy Kesan. “Through Mission ShakthiSAT, thousands of young women are learning that their dreams can truly reach the stars.”
“Bringing community leaders into the SpaceTech dialogue is the only way to make this multi-trillion-dollar industry truly inclusive,” said Sukruti Narayanan, Global Head of Partnerships. “My mission is to make Space accessible for all — not just a few! because when communities take part, the cosmos belongs to everyone.”
“We take immense pride in Sukruti Narayanan, whose leadership is opening extraordinary global pathways for our communities. WIB, Empowered BWB & She Magazine stand with her in making Space accessible for everyone, everywhere.”
Scroll through the inspiring photos below to relive the highlights of this incredible journey and witness the pride, passion, and progress of women leading the way in SpaceTech.
Proud to collaborate with Sukruti Narayanan in supporting Space Tech initiatives. She is such an inspiration who is uplifting others through the wonders of space and technology. Her passion for innovation and empowerment continues to inspire and light the way for many.
