We are delighted to officially announce the relaunch of theĀ WIA-Europe Strasbourg Regional Network, along with the new leaders Sri Varshini Budi and Nina Velimirovic. Additionally, we would like to thank Dr. Virginia Wotring for her many years of leading the Strasbourg chapter.Ā Ā
As Co-Leaders of WIA-Europe Strasbourg, Sri Varshini and Nina aim to strengthen the local network and promote diversity an across the Strasbourg aerospace sector.
Along with the co-leaders, WIA-Europe Strasbourg also welcomes its new committee members, who will aid in supporting the leaders: Aastha Bhatt, Ruchira Hanumant Huchgol, Nitya Shailesh Palekar, Solange Alejandra Blacutt Condori, Dr. Moulay Anwar Sounny-Slitine andĀ Dr. Virginia Wotring.Ā
The vision for the Strasbourg Regional Network is to serve as a high-impact bridge between the academic talent at ISU and the broader aerospace professional ecosystem in the region. While hosted at the International Space University, the network is open to all space professionals and enthusiasts in the Strasbourg area, regardless of institutional affiliation. We aim to empower the next generation of leaders by providing a platform for mentorship, visibility, and direct engagement with global space governance and industry.
Nina Velimirovic is an accomplished space architect and urban designer with over a decade of experience in designing multimodal transit systems and sustainable transportation infrastructure. Experienced in GIS modeling, BIM, and parametric design, she bridges geospatial technologies with human-centered design to create adaptive environments that thrive in extreme conditions, from Earthās urban landscapes to orbital habitats, lunar settlements, Martian outposts, and beyond. Passionate about space urbanism and orbital infrastructure, Nina explores how satellite communications, space robotics, and planetary exploration can inform resilient habitat designs for extraterrestrial living while advancing sustainable development on Earth. She aspires to leverage space applicationsālike satellite-derived data for smart urban planning and climate-positive mobility solutionsāto foster regenerative systems that address global challenges.
Sri Varshini Budi is a Space & Earth Observation Researcher with a foundation in Remote Sensing, specializing in Earth observation GIS and atmospheric sciences through advanced geospatial platforms. Currently pursuing her Masterās in Space Studies at the International Space University, she works at the intersection of space systems engineering, CubeSat design, and mission development, driven by a deep commitment to engineering and the boundless potential of space.Her research experience includes work with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where she engaged with spaceborne data, satellite missions, and research-driven inquiry. From a small city to international space and research ecosystems, her journey has sharpened her understanding of how access shapes ambition.As Regional Network Leader of the Women in Aerospace Strasbourg Chapter and Founder of Girl Up AU, she builds pathways where women connect, lead, and rise together. She actively contributes to international policy-oriented and multilateral forums, amplifying youth and womenās voices at the intersection of space, sustainability, and global advocacy.
WIA-Europe Strasbourg Committee Members:
- Aastha Bhatt – Treasurer and Internal Affairs Coordinator
Aastha Bhatt is an Electronics and Communication Engineer from India. She is currently pursuing her Masterās degree in Space Studies with a specialization in Space Engineering and Applications at the International Space University. Her vision is centered on innovation, particularly in developing new technologies that can enhance and optimize the space sector. She strongly believes that small efforts can make a significant difference; therefore, she aspires to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the space sector.
- Ruchira Hanumant Huchgol – Events Coordinator
- Nitya Shailesh Palekar – Membership Coordinator
Nitya Palekar is an MSc Space Studies student at the International Space University (ISU), specializing in Space Sciences and Exploration. With a foundation in Biotechnology and a strong research background in cancer immunology, she brings rigorous biological expertise into the domain of space research. Before transitioning to space sciences, Nitya worked as an Assistant Professor in Biotechnology wherein she mentored undergraduate and postgraduate students, guided laboratory-based projects, and helped bridge theoretical knowledge with experimental applications in life sciences.
Nitya is deeply passionate about space radiobiology ā exploring the effects of cosmic radiation on human health and cellular systems. She is also an enthusiastic advocate for science outreach and communication, actively engaging in initiatives that make complex scientific topics accessible to broader audiences.
- Solange Alejandra Blacutt Condori – Outreach & Communications Coordinator
Solange is a Biomedical Engineer dedicated to exploring the intersection of space, technology, and medicine. She has experience in the healthcare field, spanning medical devices, computer vision, data analysis, and clinical workflows. Currently, she is bridging these areas at the International Space University, where she integrates her biomedical background with space studies. Beyond the technical aspects, her long-term vision is to strengthen the space industry in Latin America. She believes that innovation in the region is not only a local need but also a global opportunity. She is committed to high-impact, ethical work and to connecting with others who share the belief that space is the ultimate platform for improving life on Earth.
- Dr. Moulay Anwar Sounny-Slitine – Committee Coordinator
Dr. Moulay Anwar Sounny-Slitine is a Resident Faculty member at the International Space University (ISU), specialising in space applications like Earth Observation, GNSS, GeoAI, and geospatial science. Known for his hands-on teaching style and interdisciplinary focus, he plays a key role in ISUās academic curricula and student mentoring. Dr. Sounny-Slitine is a passionate advocate for diversity in the space sector, using his leadership of the WIA-Europe Strasbourg chapter to connect academic talent with the broader aerospace industry.
- Dr. Virginia Wotring – Committee Member
