Who was UR Rao, the man behind India's 1st satellite?

UR Rao was an Indian scientist, who is credited with the development and launch of India's first satellite, Aryabhatta. The INSAT satellites, which helped expand fixed telephone lines in all parts of the country, were launched during his stint as ISRO's Chairman. He was the first Indian to receive the 'Hall of Fame' award by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF).