A 14-year-old from Noida, Daksh Malik, has made a discovery that’s out of this world—literally. The Class 9 student recently identified an asteroid, which was later confirmed by NASA. What’s even more exciting? The space agency has asked Daksh to give the asteroid its permanent name.
This remarkable feat happened as part of the International Asteroid Discovery Project (IADP), a program in partnership with NASA’s International Astronomical Search Collaboration (IASC). Daksh’s discovery is a major milestone for him, and he shares the credit with his two friends, who were also involved in identifying the celestial body.
The Big Moment: Asteroid Discovery
It all started when Daksh and his friends joined the IADP, a program designed to give students the opportunity to work with real data and potentially discover new asteroids. This project allows young learners to engage with NASA’s data, much like professional astronomers, and offers a chance for them to contribute to space science. Every year, over 6,000 students globally apply for a chance to join this exciting project.
For Daksh and his friends, this was no ordinary school project. They received datasets from NASA, which they analyzed using a software tool called Astronomica. After months of sifting through data, they spotted a moving object in space that seemed to be an asteroid. Without hesitation, they reported their finding to NASA for confirmation.
“It felt surreal when NASA confirmed my discovery. It was like I was actually working with NASA,” said Daksh, who was still processing the enormity of the achievement. His dedication and curiosity finally paid off when the space agency confirmed the asteroid and temporarily named it “2023 OG40.”
Teamwork and the Role of Friends
While Daksh took center stage in the discovery, he was quick to acknowledge the crucial support from his friends, who worked alongside him throughout the process. The trio joined forces to analyze the data provided by NASA, each contributing their skills and passion for astronomy. Their teamwork turned a classroom project into an incredible astronomical achievement.
According to The Print, the group was part of a broader initiative where students, under the guidance of the IADP, collaborate on the search for celestial objects. The dataset they worked with was complex and required careful attention to detail. But thanks to their determination and the guidance of their school’s astronomy club, Daksh and his friends were able to make their breakthrough.
A Name to Remember
The best part of this discovery? NASA gave Daksh the unique opportunity to name the asteroid. When asked about possible names, Daksh shared a few ideas. Among them were “Destroyer of the World” and “Countdown”—names that reflect his sense of awe and excitement for the vast, mysterious universe.
But naming an asteroid is no small task. After all, the name will be permanently recorded in space history. Daksh, who has been fascinated by space since a young age, is clearly ready for this once-in-a-lifetime challenge.
NASA’s Role in Inspiring Young Minds
This discovery is not just a win for Daksh; it’s a testament to NASA’s ongoing effort to inspire the next generation of scientists and explorers. Through initiatives like the IADP, NASA is giving students around the world the chance to engage with real scientific work, offering them a taste of what it’s like to be part of a global scientific community.
The excitement surrounding Daksh’s discovery has also sparked an interest in space science among his peers. As more and more young people become involved in astronomy, the potential for future discoveries grows exponentially. Daksh’s achievement serves as a reminder that anyone, regardless of age, can contribute to scientific progress.
The Importance of Space Exploration in Education
Daksh’s story underscores the importance of hands-on learning in shaping young minds. When students are given the opportunity to engage with real-world problems and collaborate on projects that matter, it sparks curiosity and fosters a deeper understanding of the world around them. Programs like the IADP not only encourage students to think critically but also help them develop skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and research.
For Daksh, the experience has been transformative. It has instilled in him a deeper passion for space exploration, and he now hopes to continue pursuing a career in astronomy or astrophysics. His story is a reminder that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.
