Paul K. Kuroda introduced Manuel to the exciting field of nuclear isotope geo-chemistry and mentored him in the basic principles of science.
	Nirmal K. Shastri became Manuel's life-long friend in the early 1960's. He exemplified the teachings of the Bhagavad-Gita in his daily life and advised Manuel to follow its principles in his scientific career.
	Bo Lozoff of the Human Kindness Foundation taught Manuel the link that binds all humanity and the value of service to others.
	Eknath Easwaren taught Manuel and others the common wisdom of the spiritual teachings of all religions.
	Dwarka D. Sabu was Manuel's closest ally, sharing similar values and an enthusiasm for understanding the origin and early history of the solar system.
	Carl Rouse displayed by his own life-long example the importance of intellectual honesty and personal integrity in modern astrophysics.