First successful launch of A4-rocket
| Aerospace | History of Space Exploration | Rocket Technology |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published: | Updated:
3 min read
The A4 rocket, developed in Germany, marked a pivotal advancement in rocketry and space exploration. Its successful launch at Peenemünde demonstrated significant engineering capabilities, as the rocket achieved a flight distance of 147 kilometers and reached an altitude of 84.5 kilometers. This accomplishment made the A4 the first man-made object to enter space, setting a precedent for future developments in aerospace technology. The A4 rocket was a precursor to the V-2 rocket, which played a crucial role in military applications during its time. The technology and knowledge gained from the A4's development and launch laid the groundwork for subsequent space exploration efforts, influencing both military and civilian rocket programs in the years to follow. The implications of this achievement extended beyond military applications, as it sparked interest in space travel and exploration, ultimately contributing to the space race that characterized the mid-20th century. The A4's successful launch is often viewed as a turning point in the history of rocketry, showcasing the potential for human innovation in reaching beyond the Earth's atmosphere and into space.
Primary Reference: 3 October 1942

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