Stanley A. Morain

Stanley A Morain

Stanley A. Morain (1941-2025)

After a life well lived, Stanley Morain passed away on September 30, 2025. A resident of New Mexico since 1974, Stan was born in Los Angeles, and spent his childhood in San Diego, California. He earned his BA degree from the University of California, Riverside, and completed his PhD at the University of Kansas, where he was introduced to the field of remote sensing.

Stan came to Albuquerque to join the faculty at UNM's Dept. of Geography and to manage a division of what is now the Earth Data Analysis Center, where he later served as director for 32 years, until his retirement in 2008.

For over 48 years, Stan built a distinguished career in the discipline of remote sensing applications, which led him into consulting and contracting work with the US Geological Survey/Office of International Geology (USGS/OIG), the United Nations/Food and Agriculture Organization (UN/FAO), the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), and the United States Agency for International Development (US/AID), among other agencies. He was recognized widely for his international work as well as serving in national and international professional societies. He was a certified photogrammetrist, past president of the American Society of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS), Editor-in-Chief of the Manual of Remote Sensing 4th edition.

In the International Society of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ISPRS), he served in several capacities including Council member and treasurer. He was an elected Fellow in ISPRS and AAAS (the American Association for the Advancement of Science), and was the recipient of numerous awards and citations in recognition of his national and international service.

Stan served as chair of the UNM Dept. of Geography from 1983-1992, and again from 2003-2006. His teaching career focused not only on his UNM students, but also on educating professionals in advanced and developing countries in understanding the benefits of remote sensing technology for their individual communities. Here at home, over the years, 50 or more of his students have found meaningful careers in this field.

During his working years, Stan traveled widely in Asia, Central America and North Africa. In retirement he continued his passion for travel, and in his lifetime he visited all seven continents. His frequent travel companion was Marilyn, his wife of 61 years. He also leaves behind his sister Charolette Fox, several nieces and nephews, and cherished friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank A. Morain and Doris Hodson Morain, and sister Mamie C. Schemenauer. A memorial gathering will be held at a later date. Donations to the Alzheimer's Association would be welcome and appreciated.