Space Exploration at APL: From the Beginning to the 1990s

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) Space Exploration Sector traces its origins to the post–World War II high-altitude research using V-2 rockets. It became a major contributor to the U.S. space program with the development of the world’s first satellite navigation system (Transit). During the first few decades of the Space Age, the Laboratory’s work expanded to include significant contributions to the civilian space program as well as the country’s national security. This article chronicles those accomplishments and discusses the core values that contributed to success.