Who is known as the "Father of Modern Astronautics"?

The title of "Father of Modern Astronautics" is mainly attributed to Konstantin Tsiolkovsky due to his groundbreaking theoretical work in rocketry and space travel. Tsiolkovsky was a Russian scientist and a key figure in early astronautics, known for formulating the essential rocket equation that describes how rockets move. His visionary ideas about space exploration, including the use of liquid propellants and the concept of space stations, laid the foundation for future advancements in spaceflight. His work inspired generations of scientists and engineers, establishing him as a pivotal figure in the development of space exploration.

While Hermann Oberth and Wernher von Braun contributed significantly to rocketry and space programs, their work built upon Tsiolkovsky's foundational principles. Buzz Aldrin, while an accomplished astronaut and a key figure in the Apollo moon landing, is more known for his practical achievements in space rather than as a theorist who developed the concepts of astronautics. Thus, Tsiolkovsky's early and extensive theories secure his place as the "Father of Modern Astronautics."