Frank J. Malina Astronautics Medal
The Frank J. Malina Astronautics Medal is an annual award by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF). It was established in 1986 in memory of Frank Malina, an American aeronautical engineer who pioneered rocket propulsion research and helped establish the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The medal is presented annually to an educator who has demonstrated excellence in promoting the study of astronautics and space sciences.
Each organization of the IAF may nominate a candidate each year, and candidates are reviewed by a committee during the annual spring meeting in Paris, France. Awards after 1996 have been conferred upon only one person. In total, 42 awards have been given granted to engineers, academics, astronauts, and scientists from 11 countries.