From Ancient Rocketry to Modern Rocketry

The answer to that question is no, as one might expect. Nevertheless, little is ever mentioned about ancient rocketry as though the people of times past didn't aspire as much as modern man to experience outer space travel. In fact, they did more than aspire; they made serious attempts to soar into space and one of those attempts ended in tragedy just as the world has seen in modern rocketry.

The First Casualty of Ancient Rocketry

It was the year 1500 in the land of China when a man name Wan Hoo had such a desire to experience outer space travel that he made his first real attempt--and his last. His rocket chair, considered one of the world's ancient rockets, was "fueled" by 47 primitive rockets that were attached to a chair along with a kite on each side. Wan Hoo then instructed his helpers to ignite the rockets and then to quickly retreat a safe distance away, which they did. Wan Hoo's primitive "space craft" produced a loud blast and roaring flames similar to modern rockets. However, he would not live to taste outer space travel as he became the first known casualty of ancient rocketry.

Modern Rocketry Also Takes Off to a Rough Start

American scientist, Dr. Robert H. Goddard, was the brains behind the first modern rocket which was propelled by a liquid fuel instead of a solid one such as gun powder, a characteristic of ancient rockets. However, Dr. Goodard faced ridicule and opposition as neighbors complained of the disturbing noise generated as he tested his invention. The police were called after one particularly noisy test that took place on a farm located in Auburn, Massachusetts. He even had to face the fire marshal and was ordered to cease testing; so, he moved work on his project to another site. Dr. Goddard's determination eventually yielded the invention of a rocket that could soar thousands of miles into the air and reach speeds exceeding 600 miles per hour. He might be considered "the father of modern rocketry."

Most people often think that modern rocketry, like many technological advances, reflect the curiosity and quest for power held only by modern man. Ancient rocketry, however, reflects the very same mind-sets during times when technology was in its infancy. This is why those who believe that there are intelligent life forms in outer space also believe that intelligent extraterrestrial beings would naturally be curious about "Earthlings."

Source:

Richard Whittingham and Barbara Brooks
Rockets and Missiles
The Home Adventure Library (Book)