Udupi Ramachandra Rao, an Eminent space scientist, and former Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman had passed away in his home at Indira Nagar, Bengaluru. ISRO Public Relations Director Deviprasad Karnik told that,

“Rao breathed his last during the early hours, around 3 AM on Monday,”

Prof. Rao, aged 85, but active almost until his last days. ISRO source said that he had been to his office in the Department of Space’s Antariksh Bhavan about three weeks back.

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He was the fourth Chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) of celebrated scientists during its crucial formative years between 1984 and 1994.

Udupi Ramachandra Rao

ISRO credits for contributions to the development of indigenous satellite technology with the ASLV and the PSLV. And its extensive application to communications and indirect sensing of natural resources. He started the development of the medium powered GSLV rocket for two-tonne spacecraft in 1991.   

It was during his time that India was denied the Russian cryogenic technology for the GSLV’s upper third stage.

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Udupi Ramachandra Rao was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2017 and the Padma Shri in 1976 for his contribution to Indian space technology. Society of Satellite Professionals International drafted him into the Satellite Hall of Fame, Washington, in 2013.

Udupi Ramachandra Rao as Padma Vibhushan

Dr. Rao was born on March 10, 1932, in Adamaru area of Karnataka’s Udupi district. He is survived by his wife, a scientist, a son, and a daughter.

Udupi Ramachandra Rao has published over 350 scientific and technical papers reporting about cosmic rays, interplanetary physics, space applications, high energy astronomy, satellite, and rocket technology.

Udupi Ramachandra Rao as Hall of Fame

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Who is Udupi Ramachandra Rao

• Indian Space scientist U R Rao was the former Isro chief in years between 1984-1994.  
• He succeeded Satish Dhawan as Isro chief.
• He was assisting as chairman of governing council of Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad.
• He was chancellor of Indian Institute of Science and Technology in Thiruvananthapuram.
• He has won 10 international awards for his contribution to Indian space technology.
• He formed on a gamut of space missions which is from Aryabhatta to Mars Orbiter.
• In May 2016, International Astronautical Federation, or IAF was awarded Roa as ‘Hall of Fame.’ He is the first Indian to receive this award.
• He was awarded as Padma Vibhushan in January 2017.
• He is a beneficiary of D.Sc degree from over 25 universities.
• He was awarded on D.Sc by the University of Bologna, the oldest University in Europe.

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