Rakesh Sharma

Commander, pilot, and cosmonaut

Rakesh Sharma - Commander, pilot, and cosmonaut
Born

January 13th, 1949
76 years ago

Category

Explorers & Adventurers

Country

India

Links & References

Elected to the Indian Air Force as a pilot, achieved the rank of Squadron Leader. Flew aboard the Soyuz T-11 as part of a cooperative space program between India and the Soviet Union. Conducted scientific research during the mission, which lasted 7 days. Upon return, became the first Indian citizen to travel in space.

First Indian citizen in space

Flew on Soyuz T-11

Conducted experiments in space

Served in the Indian Air Force

Other People Born on January 13th

James Posey

Basketball player and coach, NBA champion
Born
January 13th, 1977 48 years ago

A professional basketball player and coach with a successful career in the NBA, contributed significantly to team success throughout various seasons. Played primarily as a small forward. Achieved notable accolades during time with the Miami Heat, including winning an NBA championship in 2006. Transitioned into coaching following retirement from playing, sharing experiences and expertise with new generations of players.

Continue Reading

Orlando Bloom

English actor known for 'The Lord of the Rings'
Born
January 13th, 1977 48 years ago

An English actor rose to prominence through roles in blockbuster films. Gained recognition starring as Legolas in 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy, which included 'The Fellowship of the Ring', 'The Two Towers', and 'The Return of the King'. Also played the character Will Turner in the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' series, starting with 'The Curse of the Black Pearl'. Other notable roles included performances in 'Troy' and 'Elizabethtown'. His career featured a blend of action, fantasy, and drama genres, leading to various award nominations.

Continue Reading

Mario Yepes

Colombian footballer and defender
Born
January 13th, 1976 49 years ago

A former professional footballer, played primarily as a central defender. With a significant career in Club Atlético River Plate, also had stints in clubs like Deportivo Cali, Paris Saint-Germain, Chievo, and Atalanta. Played for the Colombian national team from 1999 to 2014, participating in three FIFA World Cup tournaments. Contributed to Colombia's successful 2016 Copa America campaign, finishing third.

Continue Reading

Morgan Burnett

American football player, Super Bowl champion
Born
January 13th, 1989 36 years ago

Played as a safety in the National Football League (NFL) for the Green Bay Packers, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Atlanta Falcons. Contributed to the Packers' victory in Super Bowl XLV. Known for effective defensive skills and versatility on the field. Completed a collegiate career at Georgia Tech before entering the NFL.

Continue Reading

Sydney Brenner

Biologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 13th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2019 6 years ago — 92 years old

Significant contributions to molecular biology and genetics occurred throughout a distinguished career. Pioneered research on the development of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism, which provided insights into gene function and development. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the Human Genome Project, leading to groundbreaking advancements in genomics. Recognized for efforts in unifying the fields of genetics and developmental biology, contributing foundational knowledge in the study of life sciences.

Continue Reading

Al-Hakam II

Umayyad Caliph of Al-Andalus
Born
January 13th, 915 1110 years ago
Died
October 16th, 976 1048 years ago — 61 years old

Ruled as the Caliph of Cordoba from 961 to 976, Al-Hakam II oversaw a period of cultural and scientific advancement in Al-Andalus. His administration emphasized knowledge and the promotion of education. Under his leadership, the Great Mosque of Cordoba was expanded, marking significant architectural achievements of the time. Al-Hakam II also managed diplomatic relations with other Islamic states and engaged in military campaigns to secure the territory.

Continue Reading