Jahnavi Dangeti, first Indian to complete NASA programme

A 19-year old girl, Jahnavi Dangeti ,from Andhra Pradesh, has just completed NASA's International Air and Space Program (IASP) at the Kennedy Space Centre in Alabama, US. The first Indian to accomplish this feat. She is part of a carefully shortlisted group of 20 students from around the world.

"IASP conducts flight-oriented, system-level research and technology development to effectively mature and transition advanced aeronautic technologies into future air vehicles and operational systems," the official NASA website explains.

The programme includes students rigorous training in zero gravity, underwater rocket launches, aircraft handling, multi-access training, and more. Where she also got an opportunity to fly an aircraft for the very first time. During the training session, she was appointed as the mission director for 'Team Kennedy' where a group of 16 people from various nations was led by her. The team, in her guidance, successfully launched and landed a miniature rocket.

The girl from Palakollu in Visakhapatnam, has always been fascinated by the various mysteries of space. She also explained how her grandmother's bedtime stories played an important part in shaping her imagination and aspirations.