ISA Honors NASA for Technology Advancements at ISA EXPO 2004; Society Honors an Organization for First Time in 78th History

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C.--Sept. 16, 2004--ISA-The Instrumentation Systems and Automation Society will honor NASA with the Advancements in Technology Award at its annual Honors and Awards Banquet on Monday 4 October 2004 at the Hilton Americas-Houston Hotel in Houston, Texas. This awards ceremony is held in conjunction with ISA EXPO 2004.

NASA is receiving this special one-time recognition for its technology achievements that have contributed significantly to advancements in the fields of instrumentation, systems and automation. This is the first time in the Society's history that it's honored an organization rather than an individual.

"NASA is known for its technological innovations. Many of which have transferred to our industry, particularly, in the control field with the birth of wireless, sensors, and miniaturization," said Lowell McCaw, ISA president. "We are honored to give this first-time special award to such a distinguished organization."

Accepting the award for NASA is Dr. Ghassem Asrar, Deputy Associate Administrator of NASA's Science Mission Directorate, who joined NASA in 1987. He most recently served as Associate Administrator for the Earth Science Enterprise (ESE) since February 1998. He has been a key player in the Earth Science program from its beginnings-- from leading an international science team promoting the Earth Observing System (EOS)-- to his current position as Chief Exploration Scientist supporting the U.S. Space Exploration Vision in the 21st Century."

Since becoming the Associate Administrator, ESE has successfully launched the first EOS satellites and developed a comprehensive data and information system for managing the wealth of information resulting from these missions. New measurements from Earth Science satellites are providing new insights into the connections between Earth's land, oceans, atmosphere, ice, and life. They will fundamentally change the way we study and monitor our home planet. Most importantly, the information obtained from these satellites is available to scientists, governments, commercial firms, educators, and the public worldwide.

Dr. Asrar earned graduate degrees in Civil Engineering and Environmental Physics from Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan. Dr. Asrar is an active member of several professional societies, including the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) and American Meteorological Society.

"I am honored to accept this award on behalf of NASA," said Dr. Asrar. "NASA is known for developing unique capabilities for exploration of the universe and space, and then focusing them on our planet Earth. We make readily available the information and knowledge we generate so it can be used for understanding our place in the universe and to enhance quality of life for present and future generations."

The Honors and Awards annual event includes the awards ceremony, music, and dancing. Tickets are required and available at $65 per person. Individual tickets may be purchased when registering for ISA EXPO 2004 or by contacting customer service at 919-549-8411 or email info@isa.org. Group tables and sponsorships are available by contacting Debbie Eby at deby@isa.org .

About ISA EXPO 2004

ISA EXPO 2004 is sponsored by ISA - The Instrumentation, Systems, and Automation Society. ISA EXPO, North America's number one event for automation and control professionals is scheduled for 5-7 October at the Reliant Center in Houston, Texas. With practitioners from over 70 countries, ISA EXPO features the largest and most comprehensive products and services exhibition, two cutting-edge technical conferences, and an exceptional continuing education and training program. For more information about ISA EXPO 2004 or to register, go to www.isa.org/isaexpo2004 or call +919-549-8411.

About ISA

ISA--The Instrumentation, Systems, and Automation Society is a 33,000-member global, nonprofit, educational organization connecting people and ideas in automation + control. The Society fosters advancement in the theory, design, manufacture, and use of sensors, instruments, computers, and systems for automation + control in a wide variety of applications. In addition to hosting the largest conferences and exhibitions for automation + control in the Western Hemisphere, ISA is a leading technical training organization and a respected publisher of books, magazines, and standards. ISA also serves the professional development and accreditation needs of Control Systems Engineers (CSE), instrument technicians, and others within the field of automation + control. (www.isa.org)

EDITORS NOTE: Journalists and analysts are encouraged to attend ISA EXPO 2004 on a complimentary basis. To register for your press pass, email press@isa.org. Include your name, contact information and publication.