AsianScientist (May 17, 2016) – Professor Udupi Ramachandra Rao, former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organization and secretary of India’s Department of Space is being honored by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) with the 2016 IAF Hall of Fame Award. Rao is being recognized for his outstanding contributions to the progress of astronautics within the framework of the IAF’s activities.
Rao, an internationally renowned space scientist, was instrumental to the establishment of the satellite industry in India in 1972. He oversaw the design and launch of over 18 satellites for communication, remote sensing and meteorological service purposes, beginning with the first Indian satellite Aryabhata in 1975.
“It is a true honor for IAF to attribute this award to Professor Rao, who has been for many years an active participant to the success of space in general and of the Federation in particular,” Kiyoshi Higuchi, president of the IAF, wrote in a letter to Rao.
The IAF Hall of Fame consists of a permanent gallery of these personalities, including a citation, biographical information and a picture in a dedicated section of the IAF website.
This year’s 67th International Astronautical Congress will be held in Guadalajara, Mexico from September 26-30, 2016. Rao will receive the IAF Hall of Fame Award and a certificate during the closing ceremony on Friday, September 30.
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Source: Indian Space Research Organization.
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