This is a 1/16th scale model of Robert Goddard’s first rocket.

Dr. Robert H. Goddard, an American physicist and engineer, is widely recognized for his pioneering work in the development of modern rocketry. On March 16, 1926, Goddard launched the world’s first liquid-fueled rocket, marking a historic milestone in the history of space exploration and rocketry.

Here are the key details about Robert Goddard’s first liquid-fueled rocket:

1. Location: The historic launch took place in Auburn, Massachusetts, on Goddard’s Aunt Effie’s farm.
2. Rocket Design: Goddard’s rocket, known as the “Goddard Rocket” or “Nell,” was a relatively small vehicle, standing at just 10 feet tall and weighing approximately 10.4 kilograms (23 pounds). It was constructed with a cylindrical frame made of thin pipes.
3. Liquid-Fueled Engine: What set Goddard’s rocket apart from previous designs was its use of a liquid-fueled engine. The rocket was powered by a combination of liquid oxygen (LOX) as the oxidizer and gasoline as the fuel. The use of liquid propellants allowed for precise control and throttling of the engine, a key innovation in rocket technology.
4. Launch Details: On March 16, 1926, Goddard’s rocket successfully launched from his aunt’s farm, reaching an altitude of about 12.5 meters (41 feet) and traveling a horizontal distance of approximately 56 meters (184 feet). The flight lasted for just over 2 seconds.
5. Significance: Goddard’s successful launch marked a turning point in the development of rocketry. It demonstrated the feasibility of using liquid propellants and laid the foundation for future developments in rocket technology. It also confirmed Goddard’s theoretical work on rocketry, which had been met with skepticism by many in the scientific community at the time.
6. Continued Work: Following this historic launch, Goddard continued to refine and develop his rocket designs, conducting additional experiments and pioneering advancements in rocket technology.

Robert Goddard’s work in rocketry played a pivotal role in the development of space exploration and laid the groundwork for the rockets and spacecraft that would eventually carry humans into space. His dedication to advancing the science of rocketry contributed significantly to the evolution of space travel.