Named in memory of Francois-Xavier Bagnoud (1961–1986), whose passion for flying made him, at the age of 23, the youngest professional IFR pilot in Europe of both fixed-wing airplanes and helicopters. That passion, combined with compassion for others in need, led him to join his father at Air Glaciers and to lead some 300 successful rescue missions in the Alps. On 1986 Jan. 14, François died in a tragic helicopter accident in Mali. The François-Xavier Bagnoud Foundation was born out of the desire of his family and close friends to continue the loving concern for others shown by Francois during his life. An observatory established in his name in Switzerland provides astronomers with many clear nights for observation. (M 34626) _ _.