Kitaw Ejigu (original) (raw)

'Kitaw Ejigu/kˈɪtˈəwɪ ɪdʒɪɡu/; 25 February 1948 – 13 January 2006) was an Ethiopian American scientist and politician who served as chief of spacecraft and satellite systems engineer for NASA for four decades. With his co-workers, Kitaw invented spacecraft and rockets to support Planetary Science Research and Exploration. He was also among scientists who invented Flight Dynamic Simulator, Advanced Global Positioning Satellite System, and Aerospace Rocket mechanics. Before his journey to the United States, he worked as Chief technical advisor and assistant manager for Ethiopian Automotive Services and Sales Company. He was the first Ethiopian Aerospace scientist. Kitaw died on 13 January 2006 after suffering from stroke on 8 January 2006.