Class 6 English Honeysuckle Chapter 4 Question Answers - An Indian-American Women in Space: Kalpana Chawla

Q1. What was Kalpana Chawla’s great achievement?

Ans: Kalpana Chawla achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first Indian-American woman to travel into space. Her journey was not only a personal triumph but also an awe-inspiring moment for many around the world. Chawla's selection for a space mission showcased her dedication and hard work in the field of aerospace engineering.

Q2. What is a space shuttle? Name the shuttle which took Kalpana in space.

Ans: A space shuttle is a type of spacecraft designed for multiple journeys into space, unlike a traditional rocket. The shuttle that took Kalpana Chawla into space was named Columbia.

Q3. How did Kalpana Chawla meet her end? When did this tragedy in space take place?

Ans: Kalpana Chawla tragically lost her life aboard the space shuttle Columbia on 1 February 2003. The shuttle broke apart as it was re-entering the Earth's atmosphere, resulting in the death of all seven astronauts on board. The shuttle had lifted off on 16 January 2003 and completed 16 days in orbit, during which the crew conducted numerous experiments.

Q4. What do you know about Kalpana Chawla’s education? How did she become an American citizen?

Ans: Kalpana Chawla completed her education at Tagore School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in aeronautical engineering. She then moved to the USA to pursue a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering. After her marriage to American flight instructor Jean-Pierre Harrison, she became a naturalized U.S. citizen.

Q5. What do you learn about Columbia from the lesson you have read? What was its final fate?

Ans: Columbia was a space shuttle that tragically broke apart during its return journey on February 1, 2003. It was carrying Kalpana Chawla and six other astronauts when it disintegrated over Texas, resulting in the loss of all seven lives on board. The shuttle had previously launched on January 16, 2003, and spent 16 days in orbit, conducting 80 experiments before its fateful descent.

Q6. ‘Kalpana Chawla was a heroine’. How did a journalist support his statement?

Ans: Kalpana Chawla is celebrated as a heroine due to her remarkable journey from a small town in Karnal to becoming an astronaut. Her extensive knowledge across various fields, including biology, astrophysics, and aeronautical engineering, showcases her exceptional abilities. A journalist noted that it requires enormous ability and encyclopedic knowledge to succeed in such a demanding role. Kalpana's achievements serve as an awe-inspiring example for many aspiring individuals.

LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

Q1. What do you know about Kalpana Chawla’s birth, education, great achievement, and tragic end?

Ans: Kalpana Chawla was born in Karnal, Haryana, India. She earned a degree in aeronautical engineering in India and later obtained her Ph.D. in the United States. Kalpana made history by launching from Cape Canaveral, Florida, as part of a successful space mission. After marrying American flight instructor Harrison, she became a naturalized citizen of the USA. Tragically, on February 1, 2003, the space shuttle Columbia disintegrated upon re-entry, resulting in the loss of all seven crew members on board.

Q2. The story of Kalpana Chawla has become an inspiration for millions of young Indians. How? What message did she send from the space shuttle to students of her college?

Ans: Kalpana Chawla, an Indian-American woman, inspired millions of young Indians with her remarkable journey. She made history as the first Indian woman to travel in space aboard the space shuttle Columbia. Tragically, her mission ended in disaster when the shuttle disintegrated upon re-entry.

From space, Kalpana sent a heartfelt message to students at her college in Chandigarh, encouraging them to pursue their dreams. She stated, “The path from dreams to success does exist. May you have the vision to find it, the courage to get onto it... Wishing you a great journey.” Her words continue to motivate many to chase their aspirations with determination.