Hermann Oberth

Date of Birth: June 25, 1894

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: December 28, 1989

Biography

Hermann Julius Oberth was a prominent physicist and engineer who is widely regarded as one of the founding fathers of modern astronautics and rocketry. Born in Hermannstadt, Austria-Hungary (now Sibiu, Romania), Oberth developed an early interest in space travel and rocket science, largely inspired by the works of Jules Verne. He pursued his studies in physics and engineering in various universities across Europe, including Munich, Göttingen, and Heidelberg. In 1923, Oberth published his seminal work “Die Rakete zu den Planetenräumen” (“By Rocket into Planetary Space”), which laid the theoretical groundwork for space travel and described the technical aspects of rocket propulsion. Despite initial skepticism, his ideas gained traction over the years and significantly influenced the development of rocket technology. Oberth’s academic career included teaching and research positions, and he collaborated with other notable figures in the field, such as Wernher von Braun. During World War II, he worked on the German V-2 rocket program, and after the war, he continued his research in various capacities, including positions in Italy and the United States. Throughout his life, Oberth remained a passionate advocate for space exploration. His work not only contributed to the scientific community but also inspired future generations of scientists and engineers. Hermann Oberth passed away on December 28, 1989, in Nuremberg, West Germany.

5 Interesting Facts about Hermann Oberth

1. Hermann Oberth was inspired by Jules Verne’s science fiction novels at the age of 11.

2. He was one of the mentors to Wernher von Braun, who later became a leading figure in the American space program.

3. Oberth’s 1923 book “Die Rakete zu den Planetenräumen” is considered one of the first serious treatises on rocketry and space travel.

4. He worked on the German V-2 rocket program during World War II.

5. Oberth received the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany in 1961 for his contributions to science and engineering.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hermann Oberth

1. “To our ancestors, the universe was an unknowable mystery. To us, it is a mystery, but knowable.”

2. “The rocket did not rise slowly like a balloon but leapt off the ground with a sudden roar.”

3. “Our future in the universe lies not in the expansion of our cities but in the exploration of new worlds.”

4. “In the long run, space travel is not only more important than atomic energy, it is more important than any other scientific breakthrough in this century.”

5. “The conquest of space is the only possible salvation of Earth.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Hermann Oberth’s highest net worth is not well-documented, as his career predated the era of substantial financial gains commonly associated with significant scientific contributions. His value was primarily in his intellectual and scientific contributions rather than financial wealth.