Sydney, Australia: Australian space education leader and AIMERS Foundation Founder Sukruti Narayanan FTGN has become the first person globally to be recognised through Orbit2Orbit’s inaugural Launch a Legend program, an international initiative honouring individuals whose work is helping shape the future of the global space economy.
The Launch a Legend program celebrates outstanding changemakers whose contributions align with critical space missions being developed by Orbit2Orbit. Each selected “Legend” is permanently associated with a mission that supports the growth of the emerging in-space economy, recognising not only technological innovation but also the people whose work inspires future generations to pursue careers in science, engineering and space.
Sukruti’s name will be woven into the official Venture mission artwork, which will be flying on the next Stratoship flight, as the Legend that gassed the project. She will also receive a framed mission certificate, a named mission patch and a second wearable patch.
Sukruti is the first recipient to be announced since the program’s launch, marking a significant milestone for both Australia and the global STEM community.
The current Launch a Legend initiative is scheduled to run across three rounds, with Orbit2Orbit planning to assess expanding the program based on global participation and uptake. The long-term vision is to recognise exceptional leaders through multiple rounds each year over the next decade, creating a lasting legacy of individuals driving humanity’s future in space.
As Founder and President of the AIMERS Foundation and Global Head of Partnerships for Mission ShakthiSAT, Sukruti has led initiatives that have opened pathways for thousands of young people-particularly girls and underrepresented communities-to engage with space science, engineering, robotics and innovation. Through partnerships with schools, universities, governments and industry leaders across Australia and internationally, AIMERS Foundation has become a recognised force in making space education more accessible and inclusive.
Speaking about Sukruti’s recognition, Bradley Hatton-Jones, Founder and CEO of Orbit2Orbit, said the award reflects the very purpose of the initiative.
“Sukruti represents exactly what Launch a Legend was created to celebrate. Her work has not only introduced young people to science, robotics and space, but has helped them believe they have a genuine place within those industries. From expanding access to robotics and artificial intelligence education, to founding AIMERS Foundation and supporting thousands of young women through Mission ShakthiSAT, she has helped turn curiosity into real opportunity for people around the world. We launched this campaign because the people who inspire the next generation are rarely given the same recognition as the missions and technologies they help make possible. Carrying Sukruti’s name on an Orbit2Orbit mission is our way of recognising that impact and ensuring the people building the future are part of the journey.”
For Sukruti, the recognition extends far beyond personal achievement.
“This honour belongs to every student who dared to dream, every teacher who believed in possibility, and every volunteer and partner who has worked tirelessly to make STEM more accessible. Space is no longer just about reaching new frontiers-it is about ensuring every young person believes they have a place in shaping humanity’s future.”
The recognition comes at a significant time for Australian space education, with Sukruti currently leading Australia’s participation in Mission ShakthiSAT, a global satellite initiative involving students from 108 countries, while also expanding AIMERS Foundation’s programs that connect young Australians with real-world opportunities in science, technology and engineering.
As the first-ever recipient of the Launch a Legend program, Sukruti’s selection establishes the benchmark for future honourees whose work extends beyond laboratories and launch pads to inspire the next generation of innovators.
The recognition also reinforces Australia’s growing reputation as a nation producing leaders who are not only advancing space technology but also building the human capital that will power the future of the global space industry.
Desi Australia celebrates Sukruti’s success and wishes her the best in her STEM journey.
