Neharika Gambhir has made history as the first Fijian analog astronaut in America, an accomplishment she describes as both an incredible honor and a humbling experience. With a mantra that reminds her, “the sky isn’t the limit if there are footprints on the moon,” this 26-year-old is inspiring many.
Gambhir, a graduate of St Anne’s Primary School and St Joseph’s Secondary School, recently garnered attention on social media for her achievement in the United States, receiving thousands of messages of congratulations from Fijians worldwide. Dignitaries, including Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Minister for Women Lynda Tabuya, also recognized her accomplishment.
Reflecting on her journey, Neharika shared that her ambition began at the young age of five, sparked by her fascination with planes and space. Raised by her grandparents in Suva, she received gifts like binoculars and space books that fueled her dreams. In 2019, she moved to the US to live with her adopted family, which she credits as her support system.
Currently working towards a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, she plans to graduate next year. As an analog astronaut, she engages in human spaceflight training and simulations akin to conditions in space, while also working as a cybersecurity engineer. Her path to becoming an astronaut includes pilot training, vital for acclimating her body to the rigors of space travel.
Neharika takes pride in representing Fiji, stating her responsibility is to raise awareness about the contributions of Pacific Islanders in STEM and to motivate the next generation to pursue careers in space exploration. Despite facing obstacles, particularly gender biases in her field—where only 4-6% of pilots are women—she draws strength from the strong women in her family, including her great-grandmother and grandmother.
In sharing her journey, she offers hope and encouragement to young women, urging them to remain hungry for their dreams and not to be deterred by obstacles. Over the next five years, she aims to complete her Bachelor’s degree, pursue a PhD in Computational Neurology, and secure her first commercial spaceflight.
Neharika emphasizes that her Fijian heritage shapes who she is, instilling values of community and resilience, which guide her professional and personal choices. After achieving her goals, she plans to return to Fiji for a holiday—a heartfelt reward for her hard work and dedication.
Her impressive journey of determination and resilience serves as an inspiration, showcasing how dreams can lead to extraordinary achievements. Neharika Gambhir is not just breaking barriers; she embodies hope for many others aspiring to navigate the path of space exploration.
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