The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) Vice Presidential candiate M. Venkaiah Naidu on Monday expressed condolences over the demise of internationally acclaimed space scientist Dr. Udupi Ramachandra Rao.
Padma Vibhushan award winner Professor Rao died in the wee hours of Monday at his residence in Bengaluru. He was 85.
Reportedly, Professor Rao breathed his last at about 2.30am.
Naidu asserted, "My heartfelt condolences to the family of the ex Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman and space scientist Dr. U. R. Rao."
Earlier in the day Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the demise Rao.
Prime Minister Modi took to twitter saying, 'Saddened by demise of renowned scientist, Professor UR Rao. His remarkable contribution to India's space programme will never be forgotten'.
Dr. Rao carried forward the work of Vikram Sarabhai and Satish Dhawan. He headed ISRO for ten years between 1984 and 1994. He has been involved in all ISRO missions till date, either directly or indirectly, including the first Indian satellite 'Aryabhata'.
Under his leadership, India successfully launched the ASLV rocket and the operational PSLV launch vehicle into polar orbit.
He also initiated the geostationary launch vehicle GSLV and the development of cryogenic technology in 1991.
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