Physicist and rocketry pioneer. He studied at Clark and Princeton Universities, becoming professor of physics at Clark (1919–43). He expanded the theory of rocketry, developing the first successful liquid-fueled rocket, launched in 1926. In 1929 he launched the first instrumental rocket, and later conducted research for US Navy applications. DS signed “Robert H. Goddard” as a faculty member on a 12 x 15.25 diploma issued to Russell Byron Hastings (“having submitted a dissertation entitled ‘The Emission of electricity from Substances on Incandescent Carbon,” at Clark University in Worcester, Mass., on June 15, 1925. In fine condition, with scattered areas of faint show through from a uniform application of adhesive on the reverse. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
