Wernher von Braun

1912–1977 · German and later American aerospace engineer and space architect

Topics: science, creativity

• In most cases the scientist will be fully aware of the possibility of an abuse of his discoveries, but aside from his innate scientific curiosity he will be motivated by a deep-seated hope and belief that something of value for his fellow man may emerge from his labors.

  — Wernher von Braun

• Everything in space obeys the laws of physics. If you know these laws, and obey them, space will treat you kindly. And don't tell me that man doesn't belong out there. Man belongs wherever he wants to go — and he’ll do plenty well when he gets there.

  — Wernher von Braun

• Science, all by itself, has no moral dimension. The same poison-containing drug which cures when taken in small doses, may kill when taken in excess.

  — Wernher von Braun

• The body of knowledge is advancing at an absolutely incredible rate, and new tools are constantly being made available to the researcher that were previously not only unavailable, but often not even dreamed of.

  — Wernher von Braun

• Basic research is what I am doing when I don't know what I am doing.

  — Wernher von Braun

• One of the most disconcerting issues of our time lies in the fact that modern science, along with miracle drugs and communications satellites, has also produced nuclear bombs.

  — Wernher von Braun