posted 06-06-2012 10:34 AM               

If it seems somehow inappropriate to memorialize a writer of imaginary space exploration on a board about the real version, consider the inseparability of fantasy and reality in the latter. Jules Verne and H.G. Wells were inspirations to the generation of readers who included rocket engineers and astronauts. Bradbury was one of the circle of visionaries that included Arthur C. Clarke, Isaac Asimov, Walt Disney and Gene Roddenberry; all were relentless enthusiasts and promoters of the US space program, and all were welcomed within the rarefied company of NASA leaders and astronauts as colleagues because, indeed, the most powerful propulsion system ever made is the human imagination, and Ray's was an inexhaustible example of sheer boundless drive.

His books literally went into orbit: he flew in print aboard Skylab and is now in the ISS. He was a favorite on the campuses of JPL and Caltech near his home in Los Angeles, and at libraries and high schools all over Southern California he is remembered as a funny, stern, grandfatherly presence demanding that literature be revered and consumed with relish. His own work, over 500 unforgettable stories, dozens of novels and anthologies, remains standard reading around the world. He wasn't just ours; he was translated into just about every language on the planet, and is a particular favorite in Russia — when a Soviet delegation including Mikhail Gorbachev's family was visiting the United States, they specifically requested a chance to meet Bradbury.

posted 06-06-2012 10:44 AM               

When Ray was a child, he went to the circus and met Mr. Electrico, one of the side-show performers. Mr. Electrico placed his sword on Ray's shoulder and declared, "Live forever!" ...that declaration has come true; Ray will live forever through his many published works.

Ray once said, "Jump off the cliff and build your wings on the way down," advice which I have taken with good results on a number of occasions.

posted 06-06-2012 01:05 PM               

I treasure my copies of his books that he signed, along with those that he did not sign. I have several versions of "The Martian Chronicles" just because I like the different cover artwork.

Bradbury, along with Heinlein, Clarke, and Asimov were the giants of SF when I was growing up. Now they're all gone and that is so depressing and it makes me feel old.

posted 06-06-2012 07:04 PM               

quote:

---

Originally posted by Dave Clow:
Make no mistake: the first human voyagers to Mars will find his footprints in the red sand at Valles Marineris. The first ones to go, the farthest reachers, are the crazy, fearless poets whose dreams lead the way... Once again, he's just leading the way to somewhere new and wonderful.

---

posted 06-06-2012 10:53 PM               

I got a particular kick from a local news anchor, who said one of his most memorable books was Fahrenheit 4-5-1. Just thinking about it... four-five-one!

posted 06-08-2012 07:40 PM               

quote:

---

Originally posted by Fezman92:
I hope NASA names some thing on Mars after Bradbury.

---

Today we have touched Mars. There is life on Mars, and it is us — extensions of our eyes in all directions, extensions of our mind, extensions of our heart and soul have touched Mars today. That's the message to look for there: We are on Mars. We are the Martians now!

— Ray Bradbury, speaking at JPL, 8 October 1976