It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Prof. Sampat Roy Jain, a distinguished retired faculty member of the Department of Aerospace Engineering, Indian Institute of Science (IISc). Prof. Jain passed away on November 30, 2024, at the age of 87. Prof. Jain joined the Department of Aerospace Engineering at IISc in 1971, where he laid the foundation for pioneering research on hybrid rocket propellants. His work in developing innovative fuel systems involving solid fuels and liquid oxidizers fostered enduring collaborations with prestigious institutions like the Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC), the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), and the Defense Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL). Throughout his illustrious career, Prof. Jain was renowned for his interdisciplinary contributions that bridged chemistry and space engineering. He authored over 125 influential research papers and guided 13 doctoral dissertations. His work earned widespread recognition, including invitations to present at the prestigious Gordon Research Conferences in the United States. Prof. Jain also served on various expert committees for ISRO and DRDO and provided insightful reviews of key texts in space science. Following his retirement in 1997, Prof. Jain continued his association with IISc as Professor Emeritus until 2003. During this time, he authored two acclaimed review papers, “Solid Propellant Binders” and “Self-Igniting Fuel-Oxidizer Systems and Hybrid Rockets”. He also published the thought-provoking article “Rockets and Spacecraft in Ancient India: Myths and Reality” in Science and Culture. Prof. Jain leaves behind a legacy of academic excellence, mentorship, and groundbreaking contributions to aerospace research. He is survived by his wife, Rukmani; his children, Sanjay and Sumita; his daughter-in-law, Ami Doshi; his son-in-law, Roger Kramer; and his grandchildren, Roshan Jain and Siddharth Jain Kramer. The Department of Aerospace Engineering at IISc extends its heartfelt condolences to Prof. Jain’s family, friends, and loved ones. His contributions will continue to inspire generations of researchers and engineers.