First Successful V-2 Rocket Launch Paved Way for Space Age

On Oct. 3, 1942, Nazi Germany successfully test-launched its V-2 rocket from Peenemünde, reaching 52.5 miles altitude. Designed by Wernher von Braun, the V-2 became a deadly WWII weapon and later influenced space launch vehicles and ICBMs. After the war, von Braun and over 100 team members came to the U.S. via Project Paperclip, aiding NASA's moon efforts.