Athip Thirupathi Raj attends the Space Tech Catalyst award ceremony
Jenn Gustetic, left, and Denna Lambert of NASA present Athip Thirupathi Raj with the Space Tech Catalyst award.
Athip Thirupathi Raj checks out the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, being assembled at NASA’s Integration, Assembly and Test Building.
Athip Thirupathi Raj, an aerospace engineering doctoral candidate and graduate mentor in the University of Arizona SpaceTREx Laboratory, is one of the first awardees of NASA’s Space Tech Catalyst prize. Raj was recognized on behalf of SpaceTrex and was chosen for expanding engagement with underrepresented and diverse individuals in space technology. He received $25,000 to create more inclusive space technology ecosystems.
Raj serves as a mentor for NASA undergraduate programs. The role has placed him to work with more than 40 students – some of whom are part of university programs including SkillBridge, which assists military personnel transitioning from active duty, and the BIO5 Institute’s KEYS Research Internship program – while some are from Pima Community College and the University of Puerto Rico.
Witnessing students’ progress and achievements is deeply rewarding, said Raj. Many have secured internships or positions at prestigious organizations, and others are pursuing advanced studies in STEM disciplines.
“I take pride in the positive impact of the mentoring program and remain committed to supporting the next generation of STEM professionals,” he said.
Raj attended an April 2024 event for the award winners held at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland.