Robert Goddard (scientist)

Robert Hutchings Goddard (October 5, 1882 – August 10, 1945) was one of the pioneers of modern rocketry. Though his work in the field was revolutionary, he was often ridiculed for his theories, which were ahead of their time. He received little recognition during his own lifetime, but would eventually come to be called the "father of modern rocketry" for his life's work.

Legacy

On July 17, 1969—the day after the launch of Apollo 11— the New York Times published a short item under the headline "A Correction," summarizing its 1920 editorial mocking Goddard, and concluding: "Further investigation and experimentation have confirmed the findings of Isaac Newton in the 17th century and it is now definitely established that a rocket can function in a vacuum as well as in an atmosphere. The Times regrets the error."

Related Topics:
July 17 - 1969 - Apollo 11

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Goddard was awarded 214 patents for his work, most of them coming after his death. He died in Baltimore, Maryland and is buried in Hope Cemetery in his hometown of Worcester. The Goddard Space Flight Center, established in 1959, is named in his honor.

Related Topics:
Patent - Baltimore, Maryland - Goddard Space Flight Center - 1959

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