GODDARD ROCKETS
First Successful Liquid-Propellant Rocket
Robert
H. Goddard is considered the father of American rocketry. Working alone
and reluctant to publicize his activity, Goddard experimented with
liquid-propellant rockets before anyone else.
Displayed here is a full-scale replica of his original rocket, launched on
March 16, 1926. Unlike present rockets, the engine is at the top of the
vehicle and fuel tanks are below. Beside it is a more sophisticated rocket
from a series tested from 1939 through 1941. Part of its casing has been
removed to reveal some of the internal features found in most modern rocket
designs.
1926 rocket transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space
Administration
1941 rocket gift of the Daniel and Florence Guggenheim Foundation
1926 rocket |
Length: |
3.4 m (11 ft 3 in) |
Weight, fueld: |
4.7 kg (10.4 lb) |
Thrust: |
40 newtons (9 lb) estimated |
1941 rocket |
Length: |
6.7 m (22 ft) |
Weight, fueld: |
205 kg (442 lb) |
Thrust: |
4,380 newtons (985 lb) |