Francis French, co-author of two titles in UNP’s acclaimed Outward Odyssey series, received San Diego’s “Outstanding Contribution to Aerospace Education” award from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics in a special ceremony on May 22, 2008. According to the press release issued by the San Diego Air & Space Museum, French was honored for his work heading the Museum’s education efforts to interest and engage a new generation of audiences in science, technology and engineering, as well as his prior work in science education at the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, Sally Ride Science, and his popular science books Into That Silent Sea and In the Shadow of the Moon.

“We’ve been delighted to have Francis spearheading our efforts to make our Museum and programs even more appealing and accessible to general audiences, and giving students and family audiences an even greater range of exciting, relevant and hands-on experiences in science, history, engineering and technology,” said Jim Kidrick, Museum President and CEO.

The San Diego Air & Space Museum is California’s Official Air & Space Museum and Education Center. The Museum is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution and it was the first aero-themed Museum to be accredited by the American Association of Museums. The Museum is located at 2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park, San Diego, 92101.