Neharika Gambhir has made history by becoming the first Fijian analog astronaut in the United States, a significant achievement that has garnered widespread acclaim both locally and globally. The 26-year-old, who was raised by her grandparents in Suva, has shared her inspiring journey on social media, capturing the attention of Fijians worldwide and receiving congratulatory messages from figures such as Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and other dignitaries.
Neharika’s passion for space began at a young age, nurtured by her grandparents, who supported her ambitions by giving her gifts related to her interests, such as binoculars and books on space. After moving to the U.S. in 2019 to live with her aunt and uncle, she continued to pursue her dream of working in the field of space exploration while earning her Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science.
As an analog astronaut, Neharika participates in simulations that mimic the conditions of living in space, such as those experienced on the International Space Station. In her professional life, she works as a cybersecurity engineer, overcoming rigorous training and exams to achieve her first job in the tech industry. Moreover, she is also training to become a pilot, which she believes will help her prepare physically for the challenges of becoming a commercial astronaut.
Neharika takes pride in being a representative of Fiji and aims to inspire future generations of Pacific Islanders to engage in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). She acknowledges the challenges she has faced, including gender stereotypes and biases, but draws strength from the powerful women in her family who have defied societal expectations.
To maintain focus on her ambitious goals, Neharika emphasizes the importance of detailed planning and organization. Her vision for the next five years includes completing her Bachelor’s degree, pursuing a PhD in Computational Neurology, and eventually embarking on her astronaut training. She is committed to contributing to research on how the unique anatomy of women in space might affect their health and performance during long missions.
Deeply connected to her Fijian heritage, Neharika proudly displays the Fiji flag on her uniform, reflecting the values of community, resilience, and environmental respect that shape her personal and professional life. After achieving her goals, she hopes to return to Fiji for a well-deserved holiday, celebrating her journey and achievements.
Neharika Gambhir’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and serves as an inspiring reminder that with determination and hard work, even the highest aspirations can be attainable. Her journey encourages others to embrace their dreams, break barriers, and contribute meaningfully to society.
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