The First “Green” Space Technologies

Early in the Space Age, as thunder fell earthward from the rising rockets as they pierced the firmament, researcher realize the necessity of developing space technologies to exploit the Near-Earth environment. To get into space astronauts and cosmonauts would use the high-technology rocket. But to return from orbital journeys, spacefarers would use frictional drag produced by Earth’s envelope of air. Another “green” space technology would also soon be developed—to tap the gravitational fields of giant planets.