Welcome to the Arthur C. Clarke Hub! This community hub — built on top of and serving as a companion to the Wikipedia article — lets you discuss, collect, and organize everything related to Arthur C. Clarke.
Just hours before Clarke's death, a major gamma-ray burst (GRB) reached Earth.
Known as GRB 080319B, the burst set a new record as the farthest object that can
be seen from Earth with the naked eye.
Arthur Charles Clarke was born in Minehead, a coastal town in Somerset, England. From a young age, he displayed a keen interest in science fiction, devouring pulp magazines and building his own telescopes. This early fascination with the cosmos laid the groundwork for his future literary and scientific pursuits.
Joining the British Interplanetary Society (BIS)
1936
Clarke joined the BIS, a pivotal moment that solidified his commitment to space exploration. He became deeply involved in discussing and developing concepts for space travel, including the theoretical use of geostationary satellites for communication. These early discussions helped hone his scientific understanding and fuel his imagination.
Service in the Royal Air Force (RAF)
1941-1946
During World War II, Clarke served as a radar technician in the RAF. His work involved developing and maintaining Ground Controlled Approach (GCA) radar, a crucial technology for safely landing aircraft in poor visibility. This practical experience with advanced technology significantly influenced his future writing, lending a realistic and informed perspective to his science fiction.
Publication of "Extraterrestrial Relays"
1945
Clarke published his groundbreaking paper, "Extraterrestrial Relays," in "Wireless World". This article detailed the concept of using geostationary satellites for global communication, a revolutionary idea at the time. It correctly predicted the future use of satellite technology for television broadcasting and telecommunications, establishing him as a visionary in the field.
Publication of "The Sands of Mars"
1951
"The Sands of Mars" marked Clarke's first published novel. This novel showcases his growing ability to blend scientific accuracy with compelling storytelling, establishing key themes that would be further explored in later works.
Moving to Ceylon (Sri Lanka)
1956
Clarke relocated to Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) to pursue his passion for scuba diving and marine exploration. He believed the underwater world held as much mystery and wonder as outer space. This move also provided him with a peaceful environment conducive to writing, far from the distractions of modern life. His experiences in Sri Lanka heavily influenced his later works, reflecting his deep appreciation for the natural world.
Release of "2001: A Space Odyssey"
1968
The release of "2001: A Space Odyssey", co-written with Stanley Kubrick, was a watershed moment in Clarke's career and in science fiction history. The film, based on Clarke's short story "The Sentinel", explored themes of human evolution, artificial intelligence, and the mysteries of the universe. Its stunning visuals and philosophical depth cemented Clarke's legacy as a master storyteller and visionary.
Publication of "2010: Odyssey Two"
1982
"2010: Odyssey Two" continued the saga begun in "2001". With the success of the first novel and film, fans were eager to see what was in store for the crew of the Discovery. The publication of the second novel cemented Clarke's status as a science fiction legend. The novel was adapted into the film "2010: The Year We Make Contact" in 1984.
CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire)
1989
Clarke was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in recognition of his contributions to literature and science. This prestigious honor reflected his widespread influence and the respect he garnered both in the scientific community and among the general public.
Knighthood
1998
Clarke was knighted for his services to literature. The investiture by Prince Charles formally recognised Clarke's contributions as one of the most impactful science fiction authors in history.
Death in Colombo, Sri Lanka
March 19, 2008
Sir Arthur C. Clarke passed away in Colombo, Sri Lanka, at the age of 90. His death marked the end of an era for science fiction. He left behind a vast body of work that continues to inspire scientists, writers, and dreamers around the world. His ability to anticipate future technological advancements and explore the philosophical implications of scientific progress remains unparalleled.
Brief
Known For
Science fiction writing, science writing, futurism, invention, undersea exploration, television hosting, co-writing the screenplay for "2001: A Space Odyssey".
Key Dates and Places
Born Date: 16 December 1917.
Born Place: Minehead, Somerset, England.
Death Date: 19 March 2008.
Death Place: Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Career
Past occupations: Science fiction writer, science writer, futurist, inventor, undersea explorer, television series host (Arthur C. Clarke's Mysterious World), radar technician (RAF during World War II), civil servant (Auditor at the Exchequer and Audit Department).
Previous Place of Work: Royal Air Force (RAF), Exchequer and Audit Department.
Achievements and Recognition
Awards: Hugo Award for Best Novel ("A Fall of Moondust", "2001: A Space Odyssey", "Rendezvous with Rama", "The Fountains of Paradise"), Nebula Award for Best Novel ("Rendezvous with Rama"), John W. Campbell Memorial Award for Best Science Fiction Novel ("Timescape"), Philip K. Dick Award ("Flow My Tears, the Policeman Said"), UNESCO Kalinga Prize for the popularization of science, knighthood (Knight Bachelor), CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire), Robert A. Heinlein Award, Asteroid 4923 Clarke, inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame, numerous other awards for specific novels and short stories.
Wikipedia Article
Welcome to the Arthur C. Clarke Hub! This community hub — built on top of and serving as a companion to the Wikipedia article — lets you discuss, collect, and organize everything related to Arthur C. Clarke.
Just hours before Clarke's death, a major gamma-ray burst (GRB) reached Earth.
Known as GRB 080319B, the burst set a new record as the farthest object that can
be seen from Earth with the naked eye.
Arthur Charles Clarke was born in Minehead, a coastal town in Somerset, England. From a young age, he displayed a keen interest in science fiction, devouring pulp magazines and building his own telescopes. This early fascination with the cosmos laid the groundwork for his future literary and scientific pursuits.
Joining the British Interplanetary Society (BIS)
1936
Clarke joined the BIS, a pivotal moment that solidified his commitment to space exploration. He became deeply involved in discussing and developing concepts for space travel, including the theoretical use of geostationary satellites for communication. These early discussions helped hone his scientific understanding and fuel his imagination.
Service in the Royal Air Force (RAF)
1941-1946
During World War II, Clarke served as a radar technician in the RAF. His work involved developing and maintaining Ground Controlled Approach (GCA) radar, a crucial technology for safely landing aircraft in poor visibility. This practical experience with advanced technology significantly influenced his future writing, lending a realistic and informed perspective to his science fiction.
Publication of "Extraterrestrial Relays"
1945
Clarke published his groundbreaking paper, "Extraterrestrial Relays," in "Wireless World". This article detailed the concept of using geostationary satellites for global communication, a revolutionary idea at the time. It correctly predicted the future use of satellite technology for television broadcasting and telecommunications, establishing him as a visionary in the field.
Publication of "The Sands of Mars"
1951
"The Sands of Mars" marked Clarke's first published novel. This novel showcases his growing ability to blend scientific accuracy with compelling storytelling, establishing key themes that would be further explored in later works.
Moving to Ceylon (Sri Lanka)
1956
Clarke relocated to Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) to pursue his passion for scuba diving and marine exploration. He believed the underwater world held as much mystery and wonder as outer space. This move also provided him with a peaceful environment conducive to writing, far from the distractions of modern life. His experiences in Sri Lanka heavily influenced his later works, reflecting his deep appreciation for the natural world.
Release of "2001: A Space Odyssey"
1968
The release of "2001: A Space Odyssey", co-written with Stanley Kubrick, was a watershed moment in Clarke's career and in science fiction history. The film, based on Clarke's short story "The Sentinel", explored themes of human evolution, artificial intelligence, and the mysteries of the universe. Its stunning visuals and philosophical depth cemented Clarke's legacy as a master storyteller and visionary.
Publication of "2010: Odyssey Two"
1982
"2010: Odyssey Two" continued the saga begun in "2001". With the success of the first novel and film, fans were eager to see what was in store for the crew of the Discovery. The publication of the second novel cemented Clarke's status as a science fiction legend. The novel was adapted into the film "2010: The Year We Make Contact" in 1984.
CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire)
1989
Clarke was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in recognition of his contributions to literature and science. This prestigious honor reflected his widespread influence and the respect he garnered both in the scientific community and among the general public.
Knighthood
1998
Clarke was knighted for his services to literature. The investiture by Prince Charles formally recognised Clarke's contributions as one of the most impactful science fiction authors in history.
Death in Colombo, Sri Lanka
March 19, 2008
Sir Arthur C. Clarke passed away in Colombo, Sri Lanka, at the age of 90. His death marked the end of an era for science fiction. He left behind a vast body of work that continues to inspire scientists, writers, and dreamers around the world. His ability to anticipate future technological advancements and explore the philosophical implications of scientific progress remains unparalleled.
Brief
Known For
Science fiction writing, science writing, futurism, invention, undersea exploration, television hosting, co-writing the screenplay for "2001: A Space Odyssey".
Key Dates and Places
Born Date: 16 December 1917.
Born Place: Minehead, Somerset, England.
Death Date: 19 March 2008.
Death Place: Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Career
Past occupations: Science fiction writer, science writer, futurist, inventor, undersea explorer, television series host (Arthur C. Clarke's Mysterious World), radar technician (RAF during World War II), civil servant (Auditor at the Exchequer and Audit Department).
Previous Place of Work: Royal Air Force (RAF), Exchequer and Audit Department.
Achievements and Recognition
Awards: Hugo Award for Best Novel ("A Fall of Moondust", "2001: A Space Odyssey", "Rendezvous with Rama", "The Fountains of Paradise"), Nebula Award for Best Novel ("Rendezvous with Rama"), John W. Campbell Memorial Award for Best Science Fiction Novel ("Timescape"), Philip K. Dick Award ("Flow My Tears, the Policeman Said"), UNESCO Kalinga Prize for the popularization of science, knighthood (Knight Bachelor), CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire), Robert A. Heinlein Award, Asteroid 4923 Clarke, inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame, numerous other awards for specific novels and short stories.