Michael Alsbury
Engineer and test pilot for SpaceShipTwo
Born
1975
50 years ago
Died
October 31st, 2014
10 years ago — 39 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
An engineer and test pilot who contributed significantly to the development of commercial spaceflight. Worked with Scaled Composites, where pivotal tests were conducted for the SpaceShipTwo spacecraft. Involved in designing and testing innovative aerospace technologies. Played a central role in the SpaceShipTwo program until the tragic accident in 2014, which occurred during a test flight aimed at achieving suborbital space travel.
Test pilot for SpaceShipTwo
Contributed to commercial spaceflight development
Other People Who Died on October 31st
Raf Vallone
Born in Italy in 1916, a successful footballer played primarily as a forward. Represented several clubs, including Inter Milan and Genoa, achieving recognition in Serie A. Transitioned into acting and appeared in international films, gaining acclaim in the 1951 movie 'Three Coins in the Fountain' and the 1954 classic 'The Cheetah'. Vallone's contributions to both football and cinema established a multifaceted legacy.
Continue ReadingJoseph Hooker
A senior officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War, contributed to notable battles and campaigns. Commanded the Army of the Potomac during the Battle of Chancellorsville. Served in multiple engagements including the Battle of Antietam. Experienced a mix of successes and setbacks in leadership roles throughout the conflict. His strategies influenced military tactics in various operations.
Continue ReadingKitagawa Utamaro
A prominent artist of the Edo period, specialized in ukiyo-e, particularly portraits of women. Contributed significantly to the genre through a unique style characterized by delicate lines and innovative compositions. Created a variety of works including landscapes and narratives, yet focused primarily on bijin-ga (beautiful women). His techniques influenced subsequent generations of Japanese artists. Developed series such as 'Ten Beautiful Women' and produced prints that captured the beauty and fashion of the time.
Continue ReadingKazuki Watanabe
Born in 1981, this individual established a successful career as a songwriter and guitarist, contributing significantly to the Japanese music scene. Known for creating melodies that resonate with a wide audience, collaborations with various artists have further solidified this person's reputation in the industry. A blend of traditional and contemporary styles characterizes the music, resulting in several acclaimed albums. This songwriter's talents have not only led to solo projects but also significant contributions to popular bands, showcasing versatility and creative depth.
Continue ReadingGérard de Villiers
A journalist and author specialized in spy fiction, gained recognition through the SAS series, which includes over 200 novels. The series features the character Malko Linge, an Austrian nobleman and CIA agent. This extensive work, spanning from the 1960s to the 2010s, merged espionage and thriller elements in an engaging narrative style. De Villiers traveled extensively for research purposes, often drawing on real-world events and geopolitical contexts. This approach contributed to the series' authenticity and detail, appealing to a wide readership across Europe and beyond.
Continue ReadingAndres Narvasa
Served as the 19th Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, holding office from 1991 to 1998. Prior to this role, significant contributions were made in various capacities within the judiciary and legal education. Played an influential role in landmark decisions that shaped Philippine jurisprudence. Participated in numerous judicial reforms and served as a professor of law at prestigious institutions, contributing to legal education in the country.
Continue Reading