BENGALURU: Internationally-renowned space scientist UR Rao passed away early Monday, leaving the Indian Space Research Organisation ( Isro ) bereft of the experience of a man who has been a part of all its launches in one capacity or another. Senior scientists have told TOI that his domain expertise and ability to stay up-to-date with technological advancements is unrivaled.In January this year, he was conferred the Padma Vibhushan. Interestingly, Rao had one said: "I thought I will get this (Padma Vibhushan) posthumously ..."Among other positions that Rao has held, he is remembered for his tenure at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). In May 2016, Rao became the first Indian to be given the 'Hall of Fame' award by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF).He has published more than 350 scientific and technical papers covering cosmic rays, interplanetary physics, high energy astronomy, space applications and satellite and rocket technology and authored many books.He is also the recipient of D.Sc (Hon. Causa) Degree from over 25 universities, including the University of Bologna, the oldest University in Europe.

Source: Times of India July 24, 2017 01:15 UTC