Who is Wernher von Braun?
Wernher Magnus Maximilian Freiherr von Braun (March 23, 1912 – 16 June 16, 1977) was a German-American aerospace engineer and space architect. He was a member of the Nazi Party and Allgemeine SS, as well as the leading figure in the development of rocket technology in Nazi Germany and later a pioneer of rocket and space technology in the United States. Here is some of his back story.
About the Man
Wernher von Braun, a very prominent figure in Nazi Germany's rocket program during World War II, was deeply involved in the development of the V-2 rocket, a devastating weapon used against Allied cities. Von Braun was an active member of the Nazi Party and held a commissioned SS officer rank. Notably, even after the war ended, he never publicly renounced his allegiance to the Nazi regime. Despite his significant contributions to the American space program after being brought to the United States under Operation Paperclip, there remains controversy surrounding his Nazi affiliations. Von Braun's failure to reject his Nazi oath, even in post-war years, adds a complex layer to his legacy, leaving questions about his true beliefs lingering among historians.
Science Fiction Author about Space
Wernher von Braun's enigmatic persona includes his post-war activities, notably his foray into science fiction. Despite his Nazi past, he authored a science fiction novel titled "Project Mars: A Technical Tale" in the 1940s. In this story, the protagonist travels to Mars and encounters an advanced Martian society led by a benevolent leader named Elon.
The novel's plot, while seemingly prophetic given the rise of Elon Musk and his endeavors in space exploration, should be taken as a work of fiction rather than a prediction. Von Braun's venture into science fiction might have been a way for him to explore imaginative ideas about space travel, but it does not necessarily reflect his political beliefs or absolve his association with the Nazi regime. It remains a curious aspect of his legacy, raising questions about the intersection of creativity, fiction, and the complex history of his time.
The novel's plot, while seemingly prophetic given the rise of Elon Musk and his endeavors in space exploration, should be taken as a work of fiction rather than a prediction. Von Braun's venture into science fiction might have been a way for him to explore imaginative ideas about space travel, but it does not necessarily reflect his political beliefs or absolve his association with the Nazi regime. It remains a curious aspect of his legacy, raising questions about the intersection of creativity, fiction, and the complex history of his time.
Reaching for the Stars working with Walt Disney
Wernher von Braun's interest in science fiction is evident through his literary works, including "Project Mars: A Technical Tale." This passion likely contributed to his creative imagination and enthusiasm for space exploration. It's important to note that while von Braun had a background in engineering and rocket science, his love for science fiction allowed him to envision bold possibilities for the future, including space travel.
Von Braun's connection to Hollywood and Walt Disney came later, in the 1950s and 1960s, during the post-war period when he was working in the United States. He collaborated with Disney on a series of educational films and television shows, including "Man in Space" and "Man and the Moon." These collaborations aimed to popularize space exploration and educate the public about the possibilities of space travel.
Walt Disney's work was used for propaganda purposes during World War II. One such example is the 1940 release of the film "Fantasia" in Germany. The film was distributed by the German film company RKO Pictures, which was under Nazi control at the time. They were 2 happy Nazi's working together making speculative movies about space travel because no one had been launched to space yet.
Von Braun's connection to Hollywood and Walt Disney came later, in the 1950s and 1960s, during the post-war period when he was working in the United States. He collaborated with Disney on a series of educational films and television shows, including "Man in Space" and "Man and the Moon." These collaborations aimed to popularize space exploration and educate the public about the possibilities of space travel.
Walt Disney's work was used for propaganda purposes during World War II. One such example is the 1940 release of the film "Fantasia" in Germany. The film was distributed by the German film company RKO Pictures, which was under Nazi control at the time. They were 2 happy Nazi's working together making speculative movies about space travel because no one had been launched to space yet.
On the way to Space Land
Von Braun joined NASA, where he became a prominent figure in the American space program. He contributed to the development of the Saturn V rocket, which was used in the Apollo missions, including the historic Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969. Despite his involvement with the Nazi regime, von Braun was never formally charged with war crimes, and he went on to have a successful career in the United States' space exploration efforts. His story raises ethical questions about the use of scientists with controversial backgrounds in advancing scientific progress.
In the end, respects were paid
May he rest in peace
"Dr. Wernher von Braun
March 23, 1912 - June 16, 1977
Psalm 19:1"
Psalm 19:1 is a biblical verse that reads:
"The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork."
March 23, 1912 - June 16, 1977
Psalm 19:1"
Psalm 19:1 is a biblical verse that reads:
"The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork."
Firmament Definition: the vault of heaven; sky.
Vault: In architecture, a vault is a self-supporting arched form, usually of stone or brick, serving to cover a space with a ceiling or roof. As in building an arch, a temporary support is needed while rings of voussoirs are constructed and the rings placed in position.
Vault: In architecture, a vault is a self-supporting arched form, usually of stone or brick, serving to cover a space with a ceiling or roof. As in building an arch, a temporary support is needed while rings of voussoirs are constructed and the rings placed in position.
SOURCES:
- https://www.nasa.gov/people/wernher-von-braun/
- https://www.britannica.com/biography/Wernher-von-Braun
- https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2019%3A1&version=KJV
- https://www.dictionary.com/browse/firmament
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vault_(architecture)
