Krafft Arnold Ehricke received a degree in aeronautical engineering from the Berlin Technical University in 1942. Because of his decision to become an aerospace scientist at a time when this discipline was in its infancy, he was literally forced to invent his own education. During World War II, Ehricke became a key member of the famed Peenemunde rocket development team, specializing in the propulsion system for the German V-2 rocket. It was here, working on future space projects, that he conceived his theories on manned space operations and nuclear propulsion. Immigrating to the United States in 1947, he worked for the U.S. Army Ordinance Department, where he continued his work on ballistic missiles and space vehicles, becoming one of the world's outstanding space scientists. When research and development in this discipline was turned over to industry in the early 1950s, he joined the newly formed General Dynamics Astronautics Division. As a concept and design specialist, he participated in the development of the eminently successful Atlas Intercontinental Ballistic Missile, which also proved to be a reliable primary space launch vehicle for the U.S. Air Force and NASA. His brilliance and inventiveness have played a major role in the success of United States space programs. He was appointed director of the Centaur Program in 1959, and director of Advanced Studies in 1962. In 1974 Ehricke was appointed chief scientist at the North American Rockwell Space Systems Division, where he developed his concepts of the use of space for the benefit of mankind, interplanetary travel, generation of electricity, manufacturing facilities in space, and mining of the moon and planets. As advisor to NASA, the U.S. Air Force, and the aerospace industry, his influence has been felt in all space programs.
Inducted in 1966.
Portrait Location: Hall of Fame Hallway