Pedro Paulet:Was a Peruvian Engineer the Precursor of the Space Age?

Vargas-Cuentasac N.I.; Roman-Gonzalezb A. · Proceedings of the International Astronautical Congress, IAC (2024) · DOI: 10.52202/078381-0026

Resumen

Pedro Paulet, born in 1874 in Arequipa, Peru, was a prominent Peruvian engineer. He was a pioneer in the research and development of space technology long before the start of the modern space age. Throughout his life, Paulet made significant contributions to aerospace engineering, including the design of rockets powered by liquid fuels and advanced theories on space navigation. This article analyses and discusses Pedro Paulet's legacy in relation to the early development of space technology. Through a review of his work and contributions, the aim is to determine whether Pedro Paulet was a precursor to the space age ahead of his time in terms of concepts and theories that would later be crucial for space exploration. This article highlights the importance of cultural and geographical diversity in space technology development, emphasizing the need to recognize and value the contributions of people from different parts of the world in the history of space exploration. Additionally, the significance of this study lies in its ability to shed light on a lesser-known aspect of the history of space technology, recognizing the pioneering work of a Latin American engineer in this field. Finally, this article seeks to vindicate Pedro Paulet's merit, the impact, and the fundamental role he had in the development of space technology; by recognizing his contributions, we hope to foster a greater appreciation and understanding of the history of space exploration and the importance of diversity in science and technology.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional de Moquegua; Universidad de Ciencias y Humanidades