Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) former chairperson U R Rao, has been inducted into the coveted ‘Satellite Hall of Fame’, Washington, by the Society of Satellite Professionals International.

Rao, a former Department of Space Secretary, “is the first Indian Space Scientist to be inducted into the Satellite Hall of Fame, joining the select group of about 50 Hall of Fame members,” Isro said.

He was conferred the honour at a function attended by over 1,000 guests consisting of space scientists, industry leaders, administrators and professionals on March 19 at Washington.

Rao has contributed to the development of space technology in India and its extensive application to communications and remote sensing of natural resources. He is responsible for the creation of India’s space and satellite capabilities and their application to the nation’s development, the citation said.