L4: An Indian-American Woman in Space: Kalpana Chawla 1. Where was Kalpana Chawla born? Why is she called an Indian-American? Ans: Kalpana Chawla was born in Karnal, Haryana. However, she is called an Indian-American because she acquired U.S. citizenship after she went there to pursue her master’s degree and consequently became a naturalized citizen of the US.2. How did Kalpana Chawla become an astronaut? What gave her the idea that she could be an astronaut? Ans: After qualifying as a pilot, Kalpana Chawla applied for NASA space shuttle program. She was first hired as a research scientist at NASA. In 1994, she was selected at NASA for training as an astronaut. It was her success as a pilot which gave her the idea that she could become an astronaut. 3. What abilities must an astronaut have, according to the journalist? Ans: According to the journalist, it takes exceptional ability to be an astronaut. An astronaut must know a lot about everything, from biology to astrophysics toaeronautical engineering. In this age of super specialisation, you must have encyclopedic knowledge to be an astronaut. 4, What kinds of experiments were performed by the crew in space? Ans: The crew performed experiments such as pollinating plants to observe growth in space and tests for making strong metals and faster computer chips. 5. What was the moment of joy for all Indians? How did it change into grief? Ans: The moment of joy for all Indians was astronaut Kalpana Chawla’s returning to the Earth after her space mission. But it changed into shock and disbelief when people heard about the Columbia disaster. Nobody could sleep that night and remained glued to their television sets in hope that Kalpana Chawla and her crew may survive 6. Write the character sketch of Kalpana Chawla. Ans: Kalpana Chawla was a small town girl. She was born in Karnal, Haryana. She went to the U.S. to pursue a master’s degree after completing a Bachelor of Science degree in aeronautical engineering. She married the flight instructorJean-Pierre Harrison. She was a courageous person. It was not easy for a lady born in Karnal to study abroad and become an astronaut. She struggled a lot tobe successful in life. She always thought she could achieve what she wanted to and being a woman from a small town or a different country could not affect her dreams. She was encouraged by people around her. She also motivated students to follow their dreams and make their own path. Though, it was sad toknow how Kalpana’s journey ended, nevertheless her determination proves that how difficult things may seem, but nothing is impossible.