US honour for Indian space scientist UR Rao

Bangalore: Distinguished space scientist and former ISRO chairman UR Rao will be inducted into the 'Satellite Hall of Fame' in Washington March 19 in recognition of his contribution to space technology.

"The Society of Satellite Professionals International (SSPI) will induct Rao as a member of the prestigious 'Satellite Hall of Fame' in Washington for his invaluable contribution in space technology," the state-run Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in a statement here Saturday.

Since 1987, the SSPI Hall of Fame has been recognising the immense contribution of visionaries transforming life on planet earth for the better through satellite technology.

"Members of the Hall of Fame are recognised pioneers in communications, satellite-related aerospace scientific research or development and delivery of applications for business, institutions and government via satellite," the statement said.

The international recognition makes the former space department secretary join 40 other scientists, including Arthur C. Clarke, James Van Allen, William Pritchard, Harold Rosen, Fredric d'Allest, Takayashi Yoshida, Peter Jackson and Olfof Lundberg who were inducted into the Hall of Fame in the past.