Image Courtesy: Google Doodle
Wubbo Ockels (28 March 1946 – 18 May 2014) was a Dutch physicist and astronaut. He was the first Dutch citizen to travel to space and spent a total of 168 hours in space on a mission with the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1985.
Life and Career
He was born in Almelo, Netherlands on 28 March 1592. Ockels studied physics at the University of Groningen, where he obtained his Ph.D. in 1973. He then worked as a researcher at the National Aerospace Laboratory (NLR) in Amsterdam, where he focused on energy conservation and renewable energy technologies. In 1978, he became a professor of Aerospace for Sustainable Engineering and Technology at the Delft University of Technology, where he would remain until his death.
In addition to his work as a scientist and educator, Ockels was a passionate advocate for sustainable energy and environmental conservation. He founded several organizations focused on promoting sustainable energy solutions, including the Dutch Electric Vehicle Foundation, and worked on a variety of research projects aimed at developing more efficient and environmentally friendly technologies.
Ockels was also an accomplished author and public speaker, delivering numerous lectures and publishing several books on topics related to science, technology, and sustainability.
Throughout his career, Ockels received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to science and environmentalism. In 1996, he was awarded the Officer’s Cross in the Order of Orange-Nassau for his contributions to the field of science, and in 2005 he received the Royal Dutch Decoration for his work in promoting sustainable energy solutions.
Wubbo Ockels passed away on 18 May 2014, after a long battle with cancer. He is remembered as a pioneering scientist, dedicated environmentalist, and passionate advocate for sustainable energy solutions.
Award and Legacy
Wubbo Ockels’ contributions to the fields of science, sustainable energy, and environmentalism have been recognized in various ways over the years. Here are some examples of awards and honors he has received and his lasting legacy:
- Knight in the Order of the Netherlands Lion: In 1986, Ockels was awarded the Knight in the Order of the Netherlands Lion for his contribution to the advancement of science and technology.
- Distinguished Alumnus Award: In 1995, Ockels was honored with the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Groningen in recognition of his contributions to science and technology.
- Renewable energy projects: Ockels’ legacy lives on through various renewable energy projects and initiatives that he founded or supported. These include the Superbus, a high-speed electric bus that Ockels developed, and the Wubbo Ockels Foundation, which continues to promote sustainable energy solutions and environmental conservation.
- Inspiration for future generations: Ockels’ passion for science, sustainability, and environmentalism continues to inspire future generations of scientists, engineers, and environmental advocates.
- Celebration of his legacy: In recent years, Ockels has been celebrated in various ways, including a Google Doodle on what would have been his 70th birthday, as well as exhibitions and events showcasing his work and legacy.
On 28 March 2020, Google celebrated Wubbo Ockels’ 74th birthday with a doodle.
Overall, Wubbo Ockels’ legacy as a pioneering scientist and environmental advocate has endured to this day. His dedication to sustainable energy solutions and environmental conservation continues to inspire and motivate people around the world to work towards a more sustainable future.