Description:

Robert H. Goddard
Worcester, MA, May 3, 1929
Robert H. Goddard TLS, Father of Modern Rocketry, University Professor Recommendation Letter
TLS

Typed letter signed, "R.H. Goddard," to Russell Hastings in response to an enquiry with words of encouragement and offers to send recommendations and assist in improving is professional position among highly regarded academia. 1p, 8" x 10.5", Worcester, Massachusetts, May 3, 1929. Faint rust stains from previous paperclips at top left. Expected folds and creases. Toning isolated to edges. Slight loss to lower left corner. Blank verso. Fine.

Goddard writes to Mr. Russell Hastings on "Clark University" letterhead in regard to his recommendation request: "Far from being boresome, your letter was very interesting. I am glad to have you tell me of your difficulties at Pittsburgh, and shall see to it that no Clark man goes to Pittsburgh without a knowledge of the sort of conditions he will meet there... I am very sorry indeed that you have had so much disappointment at Pittsburgh and sincerely hope that next year will find you congenial place. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help."

Robert H. Goddard was an American engineer, professor, physicist, and inventor, widely credited with creating and launching the world's first liquid-fueled rocket. Often called "the father of modern rocketry," he held 214 patents, 83 of which were granted during his lifetime, that marked critical milestones in the development of space travel. He was also the first to launch a rocket that reached supersonic speeds and to utilize gyroscopes to stabilize rocket flight.

Goddard's work caught the attention of Colonel Charles A. Lindbergh, who recognized the potential of rocketry and helped secure funding from the Guggenheim Foundation to support Goddard's research. His legacy endures through numerous honors, including the naming of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, established in 1959, and the lunar crater "Goddard," named in his honor.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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