Honorary Degree: Dr Japie van Zyl

Dr Japie van Zyl, who has established himself as one of the world’s leading space scientists, received the degree of Doctor of Engineering (DEng), honoris causa. He was honoured for his contribution as the driving force behind many a successful space project, ambassador for Africa and Stellenbosch University in probably the most advanced technological environment globally, and an inspiration for young scientists on his home continent.
Having trained as engineer, this native of Namibia joined NASA’s esteemed Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in 1986, where he soon assumed increasing responsibility. As JPL associate director of project formulation and strategy, he currently has a significant influence on the technical aspects of future space programmes in the United States. He inter alia helped design the radar system that enabled the robot Curiosity to land on Mars in 2012. His excellent work has earned him several NASA awards, including a leadership award in 2001 in recognition of his significant role in the successful first space mission of the new millennium, which he spear headed.
As extraordinary professor in SU’s Electrical and Electronic Engineering Department, he ploughs back into the next generation of engineers and scientists at his alma mater, and often uses international platforms to give credit to the quality of his Matie training.

[@joandebruin3847]

Saddened by the untimely passing of this great old Matie and son of Africa.Condolences to his family.

[@manuelmagro9173]

Joan, wanneer is Japie oorlede? Dit is regtig baie jammer.

[@willemmaas9813]

JPL was deserving for having someone like Japie's intellect and vision working for them. His legacy will live on.

[@tinaventer2021]

Awesome

[@drbonesshow1]

RIP Jakob van Zyl, Ph.D.

[@user-hb9mr3du1m]

Now looking at that show tells me everything. Please repent and give you a life to Jesus. I have never seen anything like that in my life.And then he tries to go on the christian