Space MIAD Practice Test

Which Soviet engineer was responsible for the first human spaceflight?

1. Dr Robert H Goddard

2. Sergei Korolev

3. Dr Wernher von Braun

4. John Glenn

The correct answer is: Sergei Korolev

The correct answer is Sergei Korolev, who was a pivotal figure in the Soviet space program and is often referred to as the lead designer behind the Soviet Union's early missions into space. His relentless vision and engineering prowess led to many significant achievements in space exploration, including the successful launch of Vostok 1 on April 12, 1961, which carried Yuri Gagarin, the first human to orbit the Earth. Korolev's work was instrumental in developing the R&D frameworks, launch vehicles, and spacecraft necessary for human spaceflight. He coordinated highly complex operations that combined advanced technology with innovative engineering solutions, ultimately making the historic flight possible. His contributions not only marked a significant milestone in human history but also set the foundation for future space exploration endeavors. Goddard was a pioneer in rocketry but did not directly contribute to human spaceflight. Wernher von Braun was influential in the American rocket program, primarily with the Saturn V that took astronauts to the Moon, while John Glenn was the first American to orbit the Earth but was not involved in the Soviet space program.