August 15, 2023
On this date in 1954, Wernher von Braun officially proposes the launch of Explorer I, which would become the first artificial satellite of the Earth launched by the United States. You may find more information about von Braun and Explorer I at NASA’s overview page here.
Explorer 1 was not only the first U.S. satellite, but also the first to carry scientific instruments. The satellite launched on January 31, 1958. Image credit: NASA