Dr. Mel Averner: NASA Visionary and Friend Evolves

Image: Dr. Mel Averner NASAwatch.com

Mel Averner passed away last night, wrapped in the love and respect of his many friends and NASA colleagues.
In the last 2.5 planetary rotations of Mel's life, we talked often and worked together on global warming mitigation strategies. In conversations with him I always came away impressed anew with the clarity of thought that came from his excellent mind and loving heart. He was a scientist who observed and appreciated things as they are, but also a change agent who saw things as they could be. Mel wanted a worthy mission for NASA and he never stopped working to that end. Most importantly to me, Mel gave me the gift of his precious friendship and collaboration. His recent works will soon be published.