Working for NASA is a dream that many harbour but few manage to turn into reality. Dr. Akshata Krishnamurthy, an aerospace engineer, has not only lived this dream but has become the first Indian citizen to operate a rover on Mars, marking an extraordinary milestone in her illustrious career.
A Journey of Determination
Sharing her remarkable story on Instagram, Krishnamurthy takes us back to her arrival in the United States 13 years ago. Despite facing discouragement from sceptics who doubted the possibility of a foreign national on a visa working at NASA, she remained unwavering in her determination. Her goal was clear – to lead groundbreaking science and robotic operations on both Earth and Mars.
MIT Graduate to NASA Professional
Krishnamurthy’s journey includes earning her Ph.D. from the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). However, her success was not handed to her on a silver platter. In her Instagram post, she candidly recounts the challenges of knocking on hundreds of doors before securing a coveted position at the renowned space agency.
Contributing to Space Exploration
Currently, Dr. Krishnamurthy actively contributes to various space missions, with a notable role in the Perseverance rover mission. This mission involves collecting samples from the Martian surface for eventual return to Earth, showcasing her pivotal role in advancing space exploration.
Empowering Message
In her inspiring Instagram post, Dr. Krishnamurthy imparts a powerful message to aspiring dreamers: “No dream is ever too big or crazy. Believe in yourself, keep those blinkers on, and keep working! I promise, you’ll get there if you work hard.” Her journey from MIT to NASA serves as a testament to the belief that dedication, perseverance, and self-belief can turn even the loftiest dreams into tangible achievements.
