NASA Marks 75th Anniversary of First Two-Stage Rocket Launch at White Sands Proving Ground

On May 13, 1948, NASA launched Bumper 1, the first two-stage liquid-fueled rocket, at White Sands Proving Ground, New Mexico. The Bumper program combined a V-2 booster with a WAC Corporal upper stage, achieving unprecedented altitudes. The program later transitioned to Cape Canaveral, Florida, for final launches. This marked a significant step in rocket development, paving the way for future space exploration.

Published Mar 19, 2026

NASA's Bumper program launched its first two-stage liquid-fueled rocket, Bumper 1, on May 13, 1948, at White Sands Proving Ground, New Mexico. The rocket combined a V-2 booster with a WAC Corporal upper stage, reaching new altitudes and providing valuable scientific data.

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The U.S. Army initiated the program in 1947, with initial flights demonstrating various successes and challenges. The program moved to Cape Canaveral, Florida, for its last two launches in 1950, with Bumper 8 being the first rocket launched from there. This development was pivotal for future rocket technology and space exploration.