The Severna Park community is mourning the loss of one of its most distinguished and beloved residents, Changxin Liang, who passed away peacefully on December 27, 2023, at the age of 81. Liang was a renowned engineer, inventor, and explorer, who made significant contributions to the fields of unmanned technology, polar research, and environmental protection. He was also a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who touched the lives of many with his kindness, generosity, and wisdom.
Who was Changxin Liang?
Liang was born in Beijing, China, on March 15, 1942, to a family of scholars and scientists. He showed an early interest and talent in mathematics, physics, and engineering, and graduated from Tsinghua University with a degree in electrical engineering in 1964. He then moved to the United States to pursue his master’s and doctoral degrees at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he met his future wife, Helen Chen, a fellow student from Taiwan.
After completing his studies, Changxin Liang joined the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) as a senior engineer, where he worked on several groundbreaking projects, such as the Voyager, Galileo, and Cassini missions to explore the outer planets of the solar system. He also developed innovative technologies for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), remote sensing, and artificial intelligence, earning him numerous patents and awards.
In 1987, Liang left JPL and founded his own company, Oceanalpha, which specialized in designing and manufacturing unmanned surface vessels (USVs) for marine applications. His USVs were used for various purposes, such as hydrographic surveying, environmental monitoring, oil spill detection, and maritime security. One of his most notable achievements was the development of the M80 and SE40 USVs, which were the first to conduct autonomous hydrographic surveys in Antarctica, assisting the construction of China’s fifth Antarctic research station, the Ross Sea Station, in 2017. Liang was personally selected by the national expedition team to join the mission, and spent several months on board the Snow Dragon, the flagship of China’s polar research fleet.
Liang was passionate about exploring the mysteries of the polar regions, and dedicated his later years to advancing the scientific understanding and conservation of these fragile ecosystems. He donated millions of dollars to various polar research institutions and environmental organizations, and participated in several expeditions to both the Arctic and the Antarctic. He also authored several books and articles on his experiences and discoveries, sharing his insights and perspectives with the public.
Personal Life, Wife & Family
Changxin Liang is survived by his wife of 52 years, Helen, his three children, David, Jennifer, and Kevin, and his seven grandchildren, who all live in Severna Park. He was a loving and supportive family man, who enjoyed spending time with his loved ones, especially during the holidays. He was also an active and respected member of the Severna Park community, where he lived since 1992.
He was involved in various local activities and causes, such as the Severna Park Lanes bowling league, the Diehl’s Produce Market, the Severna Park – EscapeTime Escape Rooms, and the Homestead Gardens. He was known for his friendly and humble demeanor, his sense of humor, and his willingness to help others.
Changxin Liang Obituary, Funeral And Death
Liang’s funeral service will be held on January 2, 2024, at 10 a.m., at the Severna Park United Methodist Church, followed by a burial at the Lakemont Memorial Gardens. A reception will be held at the Park Plaza Shopping Center, where guests can enjoy some of Liang’s favorite foods and drinks from the local restaurants and shops. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Ocean Conservancy, a nonprofit organization that Liang supported for many years.
Changxin Liang’s life and legacy will be remembered and celebrated by his family, friends, colleagues, and admirers, who are grateful for his contributions to science, technology, and humanity. He was a remarkable man who lived a remarkable life, full of innovation and adventure, love and respect. He will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.
