A modern rendering of the original BIS-proposed lunar lander.
Image: Mark Wade / astronautix.com.

On this date in 1948, a paper was read to the British Interplanetary Society (BIS) by H. E. Ross describing a manned lunar landing mission. The BIS, included notable figures such as Sir Arthur C. Clarke and others, “promotes the exploration and use of space for the benefit of humanity, by connecting people to create, educate and inspire, and advance knowledge in all aspects of astronautics,” says their website here.