Wernher Von Braun

Description: (Known as Father of Rocket Science)

Wernher von Braun was one of most important figures who earned unparalleled achievements in the field of rocketry, and has been hailed as the ‘Father of Rocket Science’. In his childhood, he was not particularly good at mathematics and physics but after he was gifted a telescope, by his mother his interest in astronomy was stimulated. He eventually topped his class and went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Soon, he received a research grant for his scientific works, and later received a doctorate in Physics. He experimented on liquid-fueled rocket aircrafts and developed V-2 ballistic missiles, which the German forces deployed against Britain without his approval. Due to his disapproval of military use of his rockets, he was arrested on fake espionage charges by the Gestapo, the ‘Secret State Police’ of Nazi Germany. Towards the end of WWII, his team surrendered to American forces, where he and his team began designing US ballistic missiles and later, he became the Director of NASA’s new Marshall Space Flight Centre. He is regarded as one of the greatest German weapon specialists and is hailed as one of the most prominent figures of space exploration. Scroll further to learn more about his life and career.

Overview

Birthday March 23, 1912 (Aries)
Born In Poland
Alternative names Wernher Magnus Maximilian Freiherr von Braun
Died on June 16, 1977
Spouse/Ex- Maria von Braun
Parents Magnus Freiherr von Braun
Emmy von Quistorp
Children Iris Careen von Braun, Margrit Cécile von Braun, Peter Constantine von Braun
Relatives Magnus Freiherr von Braun, Sigismund von Braun

Did you know

Where did Wernher Von Braun work during World War II? Wernher Von Braun worked for the German Army developing V-2 rockets during World War II.
What was Wernher Von Braun's role in the Apollo program? Wernher Von Braun was the chief architect of the Saturn V rocket that launched the Apollo missions to the Moon.
What was Wernher Von Braun's involvement in the development of the space shuttle? Wernher Von Braun played a key role in early concepts and designs for the space shuttle program.
Did Wernher Von Braun face any controversies during his career? Yes, Von Braun faced criticism for his involvement in the use of forced laborers during World War II.
What was Wernher Von Braun's vision for the future of space exploration? Wernher Von Braun envisioned humans colonizing Mars and other planets in the future.
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