Grossdeutscher Zentrum für Raumfahrt
| Grossdeutscher Zentrum für Raumfahrt | |
|---|---|
| File:Gzrlogo.png | |
| Agency overview | |
| Formed | February 12, 2008 |
| Preceding Agency | Orbital Reichweite Verwaltung (1955 - 2008) |
| Dissolved | January 27, 2015 |
| Superseding agency | Reich Raumfahrt Verwaltung |
| Minister responsible | Carl Madsen, Minister for Science and Research |
| Agency executive | Günther Wegener, Director |
| Parent department | Federal Ministry of Science and Research |
| Website | raumfahrtzentrum.gr |
The Grossdeutscher Center for Space Travel (German: Grossdeutscher Zentrum für Raumfahrt) was the public space agency of the Grossdeutsches Reich between 2008 and 2015 when it was dissolved and superseded by the Reich Raumfahrt Verwaltung. It was under direct control of the Federal Ministry of Science and Research.
History
The origins of the GZR can be found at the 1940s at the Wehrmacht's Waffenamt which developed ballistic missiles to be used as offensive weapons by the nazi régime. In the 1950s, other uses were envisioned for rockets such as transport of troops and manned orbital trips. Therefore, in 1955 the Orbital Reichweite Verwaltung (ORV) was set up by minister of science Bernhard Rust. Although under civilian authority, the ORV was mostly committed to strictly military activities. Under this agency the Reich was able to launch a man to earth orbit in August 1955 and by 1960 a small orbital outpost had been stablished.
