On May 8th 1988, Robert A. Heinlein, astronomer, aeronautical engineer, and award-winning science fiction author, passed away aged 80. Born in 1907 in Butler, Missouri, Heinlein was a decorated naval officer and aeronautical engineer, and had a lifelong love of aviation and space. He never lost his interest in science, as demonstrated in his novels, to include such classics as "Stranger in a Strange Land," "Starship Troopers," and "The Moon is a Harsh Mistress." Heinlein was the first science fiction writer to be inducted into the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame, and in 1975 was the first Grandmaster recipient of the "Science Fiction Grand Master Award" from the Science Fiction Writers of America. He also wrote numerous essays, articles, and technical studies including "Requiem," which won a distinguished Hugo Award in 1966. An innovator in the science fiction genre, Robert A. Heinlein's work will be remembered for its thoughtful exploration of the human condition and pioneering perspective on space.