Here, in our series on the latest EW BrightSparks of 2023, we profile Soham Kale, a Masters degree student from Cranfield University who has graduated and is now a Composites Laminator Trainee at Prodrive – Motorsports and Advanced Technology.
Achievements
Soham described achieving a Master’s degree in Astronautics and Space Engineering – with a Merit Class grade – as a challenging yet rewarding experience.
For example, he was involved at the university on the HoneyMoon project, allowing him to showcase problem-solving skills. He designed the electrical power system for the mission, with a focus on solar panel sizing and battery sizing.
Soham was also the leader of a team in the Satellite Design Competition 2022 , organised by UKSEDS (UK Students for the Exploration and Development of Space), that was recognised with a “Best Innovation” title. The purpose of the competition was to design and build a 3U Cube Sat to capture debris revolving around Earth.
He also took part in the European Rocketry Challenge, contributing to the avionics team to design and manufacture a two-stage sounding rocket.
“Adaptability is crucial in aerospace engineering, and I am well-prepared to handle diverse tasks,” Soham told us, citing his proficiency in a range of programming languages and software tools, as well as his experience with development boards and lab equipment.
“Space has always been a fascination for me,” he added, “and my involvement as a Citizen Scientist at NASA reflects my dedication to contributing to scientific research. Engaging with organizations like UKSEDS and participating in space-related events align with my passion for advancing space technology.”
Soham is proficient in multiple languages, which has allowed him to adapt and collaborate effectively in multicultural environments, such as the aerospace industry, where collaboration with experts from diverse backgrounds is common.
He was also selected for the Sustainable Sanitation Exchange (SuSanEx) programme from among 600 students. It’s a virtual exchange programme that brings together school classes from the North and the South hemispheres to discuss issues of sanitation and water management.
In terms of experience outside university before graduating with his Masters, Soham had fulfilled the role of Python Developer at CleverGround Technologies and as a Project Intern at ARAI, which involved creating automated testing algorithms and data transfer systems.
Community
Soham has been actively engaged in a diverse range of community and extracurricular activities, for example, mentoring students and volunteering at space-related events.
As mentioned, he has been working as a Citizen Scientist for NASA, which he described as a dream come true. “Being part of NASA projects not only deepened my understanding of space but also allowed me to contribute to humanity’s collective knowledge of the universe,” he told us.
Additionally, he was also Social Media Manager of the Global STEM Initiative UK Chapter, helping to champion and bolster STEM education and involvement.
Soham was also Event Head at the Telecommunications Engineering Students Association (TESA). Leading events in that role involved fostering a sense of community among students in the telecommunications engineering department. These events not only encouraged learning but also created a space for collaboration and shared experiences, we learnt.
He has also served as a mentor on the Horse’s Mouth initiative, which he described as a rewarding experience. It involved guiding upcoming students through their academic and professional journeys – sharing insights, offering support, and helping others navigate challenges and opportunities.
Finally, as a member of the UMEED Foundation (United Movement for Education Empowerment and Development), involved with a tree plantation drive, he told us he felt privileged to be part of the philanthropic endeavours aiming to make a positive impact on society.
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