Sir Arthur C. Clarke, CBE: 16 Dec 1917 – 19 Mar 2008
If we have learned one thing from the history of invention and discovery, it is that, in the long run – and often in the short one – the most daring prophecies seem laughably conservative.
– Arthur C. Clarke, The Exploration of Space, 1951
Radar specialist, scientist, visonary and author. One of the great pillars of science fiction whose works – short stories and novels, fired the imaginations of young and old alike through the ages. Rest in peace Sir Clarke – we look forward to meeting you in the Great Beyond someday…
It is a shame that he wasn’t able to cash in on his ideas. Imagine holding the patent on geosycronous satellites
A colleague of mine was fortunate to be the last journalist to interview Clarke before his death, you can listen to the interview at http://spectrum.ieee.org/radio?id=2518, read a summary at http://spectrum.ieee.org/mar08/6075, or read the whole transcript http://spectrum.ieee.org/mar08/6076.