Profiles in Science for Science Librarians: Robert Goddard: Rocket Scientist

Abstract

Robert Goddard is the father of modern rocketry because of his pioneering theoretical and experimental work with rockets. He launched the first liquid-fueled rocket, installed the first inertial rocket guidance system, and patented the multistage rocket. He also created the prototype of the bazooka and launched the first vehicle to go faster than the speed of sound. His work, however, went well beyond rockets. He was awarded the first patent for a radio tube and had others concerning maglev transportation. It was for good reason that TIME magazine named Goddard one of the top minds of the twentieth century.

KEYWORDS:

• Robert Goddard
• liquid-fueled rocket
• rocketry
• radio tube
• bazooka
• maglev
• physics
• history of science
• history of technology
• astronautics
• astronautical engineering
• aerodynamics