What was the importance of Robert Goddards December 6, 1925 rocket test at Clark University?
This test, which was done on a static rack in the annex attached to the physics building at Clark University, was the first time a liquid-fueled rocket was able to lift its own weight. Robert Goddard commented that “with a rocket weighing 12 lbs. empty the engine pressure was 75 lbs., and the combustion chamber pressure 100 lbs., and both pressures were constant. There was a good, and rather steady flame. The lift was about 1″, and oscillated, but was undoubtedly enough to lift the rocket during the last half of the run. This test, being the first in which a liquid propelled rocket had operated satisfactorily and lifted its own weight, is of much significance, for it shows that a larger rocket constructed on the same plan could raise itself to considerable altitudes.” A few months later, on March 16, 1926, Goddard had the first flight of a liquid-fueled rocket.
