Aerospace Engineering Student Aayushi Mallik Earns Top Finalist Recognition in Viasat: Space for Good Challenge
Aayushi Mallik, an Aerospace Engineering student at Rutgers, recently returned from Viasat’s headquarters in Carlsbad, California, where she competed as a top finalist in the national Space for Good Challenge. The event brought together some of the nation’s most promising student innovators to present space-driven solutions for sustainability challenges on Earth.
At the competition, Aayushi presented her project, Climalink, an orbital carbon capture system that leverages CubeSat technology to actively remove CO₂ from the atmosphere. While the technical presentation was the centerpiece of the challenge, Aayushi emphasized that the broader experience of learning, mentorship, and collaboration proved equally transformative.
Throughout the multi-day program, finalists were paired with mentors from Viasat and other industry leaders who provided technical guidance, strategic insights, and professional encouragement. Aayushi described the environment as one filled with “no shortage of energy, intelligence, and passion,” where she was constantly challenged to think more critically and creatively about the intersection of aerospace engineering and climate innovation.
The competition also served as a powerful networking opportunity. Surrounded by peers from across the country, Aayushi engaged in discussions that spanned disciplines, building connections with fellow students, engineers, and entrepreneurs who shared her drive to develop technology for global good. “Being immersed in such a dynamic community reinforced my passion for aerospace and sustainability, and gave me the confidence to continue pursuing bold, high-impact ideas,” she reflected.
For Aayushi, the challenge underscored the value of collaboration and mentorship in shaping the next generation of engineers. Beyond the recognition as a top finalist, she returned with new perspectives, lasting relationships, and a strengthened commitment to using aerospace technologies as a tool for climate action. The experience ultimately reinforced her vision of pursuing aerospace solutions for sustainability and provided her with the tools and confidence to continue advancing Climalink and future innovations.
