October 3

1990

The re-unification of Germany took place, resulting in the political unity of East and West Germany.

This was a major landmark in the defeat of Communism and a great step forward for the German people.

1962

The Sigma 7 spacecraft was launched as part of NASA’s Mercury space program.

Astronaut Wally Schirra made six orbits of the Earth in an almost completely flawless nine-hour flight focused on “engineering evaluation” rather than on scientific experimentation.

1942

The first successful launch of a V-2 /A4-rocket took place from Test Stand VII at Peenemunde, Germany. It was the first man-made object to reach space.

1802

Scottish-American John Gorrie was born on the Island of Nevis.

He was a physician, scientist, inventor, and humanitarian, and is considered the father of refrigeration and air conditioning, having invented the first ice-making machine.