German's first in Space ! October 3, 1942

A V-2 A4 rocket launched from Peenemünde, an island off Germany’s Baltic coast, became the first known man-made object to reach space, traveling 118 miles on October 3, 1942. The 2-ton, liquid-propellant rocket was designed by rocket scientist Wernher von Braun and proved extraordinarily deadly during World War II. Over 3,000 were launched at Allied targets beginning in September 1944 (see photo at right of a V-2 rocket replica found at the Peenemünde Museum).
Employing supersonic aerodynamics, gyroscopic guidance, and rudders in jet control, the V-2 was difficult to intercept as it would rise six miles vertically then proceed on an arced course, cutting off its own fuel according to the range desired before tipping over and falling on its target at a speed of almost 4000 mph.
It was the world’s first long-range combat-ballistic missile. History records that Adolf Hitler was not particularly impressed by the V-2, believing it to be an expensive, long-range artillery shell. Still, he supported the research, which ultimately gobbled up tremendous Nazi resources.