The Space Woman: Susmita Mohanty, India’s Pioneer of Private Space Tech.

In a field often dominated by government agencies and global giants, Susmita Mohanty has carved her name among the world’s most visionary space entrepreneurs. Known as the only woman to have founded space companies on three different continents, she stands as a symbol of innovation, resilience, and global collaboration. Through her ventures, Susmita has not only advanced the cause of private space technology in India but has also redefined how the world perceives women in science and entrepreneurship.

Born into a family of scientists in Cuttack, Odisha, Susmita Mohanty’s fascination with space began early. Her father, who worked as a space scientist at ISRO, inspired her curiosity about rockets and spacecraft. However, it was her own determination and imagination that propelled her to dream beyond the stars. After earning degrees in electrical engineering and industrial design, she pursued a master’s in space studies from the International Space University in France, setting the stage for a career that would transcend borders.

Susmita’s first major venture came in 2001 when she co-founded Moonfront, a space consulting firm based in San Francisco. The company worked with NASA and private entities, offering expertise in spacecraft design and mission strategy. A few years later, she co-founded Liquifer Systems Group in Vienna, an interdisciplinary firm that designs habitats for space missions and extreme environments. These experiences shaped her understanding of how design, technology, and sustainability could come together to build the future of space exploration.

In 2011, Susmita returned to India to launch Earth2Orbit, the country’s first private space startup. At a time when the Indian space sector was almost entirely controlled by ISRO, her initiative was revolutionary. Earth2Orbit focused on providing launch consultancy, satellite integration, and communication solutions, helping international clients access India’s cost-effective launch capabilities. Her work played a crucial role in opening up India’s space ecosystem to private players and global collaboration.

Susmita has consistently championed the idea that space technology should serve humanity. Beyond business, she advocates for the responsible use of space, emphasizing sustainability, gender inclusivity, and international cooperation. Her forward-thinking approach earned her global recognition, including appearances in prestigious forums such as TED, the World Economic Forum, and United Nations conferences on space policy.

Today, as India enters a new era of private space innovation, Susmita Mohanty’s legacy stands as a guiding light. Her journey illustrates how courage and intellect can break boundaries, proving that the sky is not the limit but only the beginning. By merging science with social consciousness, she continues to inspire a generation of dreamers who look at the stars not just with wonder but with purpose.