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

Shimizugawa Motokichi

Sumo wrestler and Champion Yokozuna
Born
January 13th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1967 58 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Japan, achieved the highest rank of Yokozuna in sumo wrestling in 1922. Competed prominently in the early Shōwa period and displayed remarkable skill and strength throughout a career that lasted over a decade. Contributed to the popularity of sumo wrestling during his active years.

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

Ross Granville Harrison

American biologist and anatomist
Born
January 13th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 89 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of embryology and tissue culture. Developed techniques for culturing living tissues outside of the body, which laid the foundation for future research in cell biology and regenerative medicine. Conducted pioneering work on the embryonic development of amphibians, particularly the frog. Published multiple influential studies, advancing the understanding of cellular and tissue development.

Continue Reading

Winnie Byanyima

Ugandan engineer and diplomat
Born
January 13th, 1959 66 years ago

An engineer and diplomat, contributions include leadership in diverse roles within various organizations advocating for human rights and social justice. Held the position of Executive Director at Oxfam International, focusing on global poverty eradication and gender equality. Served as Uganda's ambassador to France, strengthening diplomatic ties. Played a significant role in the United Nations efforts, especially in relation to issues affecting gender and development.

Continue Reading

Daniel Oss

Italian cyclist with notable team roles
Born
January 13th, 1987 38 years ago

Competed as a professional cyclist primarily in road racing. Represented various teams, including Liquigas-Cannondale and BORA-hansgrohe. Participated in grand tours such as the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia. Achieved multiple top finishes in one-day races, showcasing skills in both sprint and climbing stages.

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