Jahnavi Dangeti, a 23-year-old from Palakollu in West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh, has made history by being selected as an Astronaut Candidate (ASCAN) for Titans Space’s 2025 inaugural class. She is among the youngest Indians ever chosen for a commercial space mission.

The upcoming Titans Space orbital flight, scheduled for March 2029, will last five hours, orbit Earth twice, and provide three hours of sustained zero gravity—offering a unique environment for scientific research and human spaceflight.

Dangeti, an Electronics and Communication Engineering graduate, is the first Indian to complete NASA’s International Air and Space Program and is widely recognised for her work in STEM outreach and asteroid discovery.

The mission will be led by veteran NASA astronaut William McArthur Jr., now Chief Astronaut for Titans Space. Political leaders, including YSRCP chief Jagan Mohan Reddy and IT Minister Nara Lokesh, have congratulated Jahnavi, hailing her as a role model for young Indians and a symbol of the country’s growing presence in space exploration.

A Trailblazer’s Journey to the Stars: Breaking Boundaries in Space

Jahnavi Dangeti’s selection as an Astronaut Candidate for Titans Space is not just a personal triumph, but a landmark moment for India’s aspirations in global space exploration. “I am incredibly honoured and excited to announce that I have been officially selected as an Astronaut Candidate for Titans Space,” Jahnavi shared on her social media platforms.

She described the achievement as “the wonder becoming a true part of reality,” recalling her childhood fascination with the moon and the night sky. Over the next three years, starting in 2026, Dangeti will undergo intensive astronaut training in the United States. This rigorous programme will cover spacecraft systems, flight simulation, emergency procedures, and medical evaluations, preparing her for the unique challenges of spaceflight.

William McArthur Jr., Chief Astronaut for Titans Space and a veteran of multiple NASA missions, expressed his enthusiasm: “Jahnavi’s selection is a testament to her dedication, talent, and the growing diversity of the global space community. She represents not just India, but the aspirations of young people everywhere who look to the stars with hope and determination.”

The mission itself is designed to be accessible and transformative, offering crew members the rare experience of two sunrises and two sunsets within a single flight, and three hours of sustained zero gravity—conditions ideal for scientific experiments and personal growth.

From Andhra to the Cosmos: A Story of Grit, Inspiration, and Community Support

Jahnavi Dangeti’s journey from a small town in Andhra Pradesh to the international stage of space exploration is a story of perseverance, ambition, and the power of community support. Born and raised in Palakollu, she pursued her passion for science and technology by enrolling in Electronics and Communication Engineering at Lovely Professional University.

Her academic excellence and curiosity led her to participate in NASA’s International Air and Space Program, where she became the first Indian to graduate from this prestigious initiative.

Beyond her academic achievements, Dangeti has been a passionate advocate for STEM education. She has led outreach programmes in schools across India, inspiring thousands of students—especially girls—to pursue careers in science and technology. Her work in asteroid discovery projects has also earned her recognition from international space organisations. “I want every young person in India to know that space is not out of reach, no matter where you come from,” Jahnavi has often said.

The announcement of her selection has been met with widespread celebration. YSRCP chief Jagan Mohan Reddy congratulated her, calling her “an inspiration to every Indian and every Andhra person.”

IT Minister Nara Lokesh highlighted her journey as “a testament to the talent and determination of young Indians,” and urged more investment in STEM education to nurture future talent. The local community in Palakollu has rallied behind Jahnavi, with schools and colleges organising events to celebrate her achievements and inspire the next generation.

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

Jahnavi Dangeti’s story is a powerful reminder that dreams, no matter how distant they may seem, can become reality with determination, support, and the right opportunities.

At The Logical Indian, we celebrate her as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of education. Her journey from a small town to the cosmos is a testament to the importance of fostering curiosity, encouraging STEM education, and creating inclusive opportunities for young people from all backgrounds.

As we look forward to her historic mission in 2029, we are reminded of the collective responsibility we share in nurturing the next generation of dreamers and explorers. How can we, as a society, better support and inspire young people to reach for the stars? What steps can we take to ensure that talent and ambition are never limited by geography or circumstance?