1939 Computing & Technology Events — Verified Historical Highlights
1939 Computing & Technology Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 27 Jan First flight of the Lockheed XP-38 Lightning: On January 27, 1939, First Lieutenant Benjamin S. Kelsey piloted the prototype Lockheed XP-38 Lightning on its maiden flight at March Field, California. The aircraft experienced severe vibrations due to failed flap support rods, leading to a high-speed landing with minimal damage. This event marked the beginning of the P-38's development into a significant World War II fighter. source: thisdayinaviation.com
- 01 Apr Canada launches transcontinental air service: On April 1, 1939, Canada launched its first transcontinental air service, connecting the east and west coasts of the country and marking a significant advancement in Canadian aviation.
- 26 Apr Fritz Wendel sets world air speed record: On April 26, 1939, German test pilot Fritz Wendel flew the Messerschmitt Me 209 V1, achieving a world air speed record of 755.14 km/h (469.22 mph). This record stood for 30 years until surpassed in 1969. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 29 Jun First commercial transatlantic plane flight: On June 29, 1939, Pan American Airways' "Dixie Clipper" completed its inaugural transatlantic passenger flight, landing in Lisbon, Portugal. This flight was part of the first scheduled commercial transatlantic air service, marking a new era in global air travel. source: si.edu
- 30 Jun First rocket plane flight: On June 30, 1939, the first rocket-powered aircraft, the Heinkel He 176, made its maiden flight in Germany. This event marked a significant advancement in aviation technology, paving the way for future developments in rocket propulsion. source: history.com
- 24 Aug First Jet-Propelled Flight in History: Erich Warsitz successfully conducted the world's first jet-propelled flight in a Heinkel He-178 aircraft at Rostock-Marienehe, Germany. This groundbreaking technological achievement marked a pivotal moment in aviation history, demonstrating the potential of jet propulsion technology.
- 27 Aug First jet aircraft flight by Erich Warsitz: On August 27, 1939, Erich Warsitz conducted the first flight of a jet aircraft, the Heinkel He 178, in Germany. This event marked a significant milestone in aviation history, paving the way for future developments in jet technology. source: britannica.com
- 05 Sep Nazi Germany Prioritizes Rocket Development: German Army Commander-in-Chief Colonel-General von Brauchitsch grants the A-4 rocket project the highest possible priority, signaling significant investment in advanced military technology during the onset of World War II.
- 11 Oct Einstein Warns Roosevelt About Atomic Potential: On October 11, 1939, physicist Albert Einstein signed a letter to U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, co-authored with physicist Leo Szilard, warning about the potential for Nazi Germany to develop atomic weapons. This letter led to the establishment of the Manhattan Project, which aimed to develop nuclear weapons for the United States. source: archives.gov
- 28 Dec First flight of the B-24 Liberator bomber: On December 28, 1939, the prototype Consolidated B-24 Liberator heavy bomber made its first flight from Lindbergh Field in San Diego, California. This aircraft became one of the most produced American military aircraft during World War II. source: airandspaceforces.com
What happened in 1939?
Discover what the world looked like in 1939: