Liu Jiyuan, a veteran aerospace engineer and former head of China’s space agency, has died at the age of 93 after an illness, marking the end of a career spanning nearly four decades in China’s missile and space programmes.
Liu began his professional career in 1960 and went on to play an important role in the development of control systems for China’s first generation of strategic weapons and launch vehicles.
His work made him a leading expert in missile and rocket control technology during a crucial period in the development of China’s aerospace capabilities.
In 1992, Liu was appointed deputy commander of China’s manned space programme. The following year, he became head of the newly established China National Space Administration, a position he held until his retirement in 1999.
The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation said Liu died on Monday following an illness. He was born in 1933.
His death comes days after fellow aerospace pioneer Wang Xiji died on August 12. Wang was recognised for his role in leading the development of China’s first sounding rocket.
Liu’s nearly four-decade career spanned a transformative period in China’s development of strategic weapons, launch vehicles and its early space programme, leaving a significant mark on the country’s aerospace industry.
Goodness Anunobi
Follow us on:
