Where are you from? 

I am from Lasalgaon in Nashik, Maharashtra, India. Lasalgaon is known for being Asia's largest onion market and Nashik District is India's Wine Capital.

What do you do? 

I like discovering Nature's deepest ecosystems and learning about species mutual dependence. I am passionate about research and believe that blending science and technology can benefit the world. Therefore, I opted to be a software engineer while working to integrate scientific advancements. I work as an associate software engineer. I also address current challenges in the space industry and missions as a global delegate for SGAC's Space Generation Fusion Forum 2021 and 36^th Space Symposium and for the UN/Spain/International Astronomical Union Conference on Dark and Quiet Skies for Science and Society.

During the holidays and other occasions, I also do arts and crafts. This allows me to keep track of my creative skills while still being innovative!

How do you use GLOBE Observer? 

Whenever I travel, I use GLOBE protocols to understand weather changes, cloud changes, and biosphere changes. If I come across any unusual observations, I collect the data and upload it to GLOBE Observer.

Also, whenever the Indian Monsoon System hits Maharashtra between June and September, I frequently record atmospheric conditions. In the future, this data could be important when understanding the changes in the Indian Monsoon System, which is no longer as regular as it was in the previous decade, resulting in cloud burst-like scenarios and heavy rains!

How do you plan to use GLOBE Observer in the future?<

I am planning to implement "The GLOBE Program" as an essential part in schools and colleges, so a local to global approach can be established, as well as enrolling various environmental organizations and NGOs in the GLOBE Program.

Why is citizen science important to you? 

Citizen science can be implemented with individuals and groups, and it has the great power to bond everyone together and build a global and sustainable society. Citizen science data enhance the scientific and analytical process and foster innovation & creativity! Even non-scientific groups may contribute by using simplified general science that everyone is familiar with in their daily lives.

What advice do you have for people just getting into citizen science? 

It's more vital than ever to become engaged in citizen science and offer yourself an opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable future. Bring your passion, open your mind, and come forward to educate society because we all require Earth’s resources.

Scientists can aid in the discovery of new facts, while engineers may give a long-term solution to handle new advancements. Architects and designers can provide unique designs for any construction or formation of human cultivated vegetation. Environmentalists can join to establish the policies against using any endangered resource. Doctors can ensure the society is healthy by implementing various methods of awareness. Government can ensure everything is going smoothly and legally guaranteeing a sustainable future.

This is how citizen science bonds everyone together and builds a global sustainable society!

What do you do for fun? 

I enjoy hanging out on weekends, and I really plan to do so for the sake of relaxing and exploring nature!

I genuinely love watching American Sci-Fi TV series such as "The Flash," "The Last Ship," and "Manifest," as well as some political aspects such as "Madam Secretary." These are wonderful TV Series that make me feel awesome and that I even enjoy more watching it with my friends and family.

I like learning about the various cultures of our global civilization and their ways of life and experience them personally whether it’s a kind of cuisine or festival.

And, above all, I like teaching those who are need scientific explanations or need advice in understanding what science is.

How did you discover the GLOBE Program and GLOBE Observer?

I've been interested by science since I was in secondary school, so becoming a scientist was a natural progression for me. In high school I learned several fascinating things about programming and technology that sparked my interest. I was also interested in science and technology at the same time, and I was already familiar with many major concepts of science. So, I chose Engineering in Information Technology and enrolled at the University of Pune.

While there, I acquired an interest in environmental science, so I thought, why not combine my software-technological abilities with science and the environment? This is what finally led me to The GLOBE Program.

What inspires you? 

Contributing my broad skill set (in science, engineering, and technology) to benefit the environment, resulting in a better society, is what inspires me. I am honored to be a member of The GLOBE Program!

Any favorite quote(s) that you would like to share?

“Some of nature’s most exquisite handiwork is on a miniature scale, as anyone knows who has applied a magnifying glass to a snowflake.” —Rachel Carson

View Yashraj’s Story Map from his 2021 Himalayan Expedition with the Earth & Space Exploration Program (ESEP) in Ladakh, India: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/b0611cd2625646d8817d235afa68fc85