A wax statue of Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams was unveiled on Monday at the North Bengal Science Centre in Siliguri, West Bengal. The statue, showcasing Williams in her NASA astronaut suit, aims to motivate students and ignite interest in space science and STEM education.
The life-sized figure was inaugurated as part of a larger educational initiative by the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM). Officials said the exhibit is intended to encourage young visitors, especially girls, to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
“We believe showcasing role models like Sunita Williams can have a strong impact on students. Her journey proves that with dedication and education, even the sky is not the limit,” said Dr. A.K. Singh, curator of the North Bengal Science Centre.
The installation is part of a new interactive section on space science at the museum. Alongside the statue, visitors can explore displays related to astronaut training, life in space, satellite communication, and India’s space missions. The section includes audio-visual presentations and hands-on models to engage students in learning beyond textbooks.
Sunita Williams is known for her achievements as a NASA astronaut, including spending over 321 days in space and completing seven spacewalks. Her accomplishments have inspired many across the world, and her Indian heritage adds a sense of pride for local communities.
The unveiling event was attended by local dignitaries, educators, students, and parents. It also featured screenings of short films about space exploration, science-based quizzes, and model rocket demonstrations.
Educators present at the event welcomed the initiative. “When children see someone who shares their roots succeed in such a challenging field, it strengthens their belief that they too can achieve great things,” said Meena Chakraborty, a local science teacher.
The exhibit also comes at a time when India’s interest in space exploration is at an all-time high, with missions like Chandrayaan-3 and Gaganyaan drawing national attention. Officials believe the new installation will contribute meaningfully to public science awareness.
The museum plans to organize regular guided tours and interactive sessions around the exhibit to keep students engaged throughout the year.
