Arthur C. Clarke

Pioneering science fiction writer, futurist, and popularizer of space travel.

Chronology: 1917-12-16 – 2008-03-19

Origins & Early Life

Sir Arthur Charles Clarke (16 December 1917 – 19 March 2008) was an English science fiction writer, science writer, futurist, inventor, undersea explorer, and television series host. Clarke was a science fiction writer, an avid populariser of space travel, and a futurist of distinguished ability. He wrote many books and many essays for popular magazines. In 1961, he received the Kalinga Prize, a UNESCO award for popularising science.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Clarke's science and science fiction writings earned him the moniker "Prophet of the Space Age". His science fiction writings in particular earned him a number of Hugo and Nebula awards, which, along with a large readership, made him one of the towering figures of the genre. For many years, science fiction had a "Big Three", comprising Clarke and American writers Robert Heinlein and Isaac Asimov. Clarke co-wrote the screenplay for the 1968 film 2001: A Space Odyssey, widely regarded as one of the most influential films of all time. Clarke was a lifelong proponent of space travel.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

In 1934, while still a teenager, he joined the British Interplanetary Society (BIS). In 1945, he proposed a satellite communication system using geostationary orbits. He was...

Source: Wikipedia