Tech & Science · 1949
1949: Dawn of Jets, Computing, and Atom
In 1949, the world entered a bold new era marked by the birth of jet travel, pioneering stored-program computing, and intense Cold War technological rivalry. From record-breaking rocket launches to consumer audio innovations, scientific breakthroughs reshaped communication, transport, and global power.
- May 6, 1949 | Cambridge, UK
EDSAC Runs First Program
The Electronic Delay Storage Automatic Calculator becomes the world's first practical stored-program computer to enter regular service.
- July 27, 1949 | Hertfordshire, UK
Maiden Flight of de Havilland Comet
The world's first commercial jet airliner takes to the skies, ushering in the Jet Age with pressurized cabins and turbojet power.
- August 29, 1949 | Semipalatinsk, USSR
Soviet Union Tests RDS-1 Nuclear Device
Code-named 'First Lightning,' the USSR successfully detonates its first atomic bomb, breaking the American nuclear monopoly.
- October 20, 1949 | United States
Patent Filed for the Barcode
Inventors Norman Joseph Woodland and Bernard Silver file a patent for a bullseye-patterned optical code, laying the groundwork for modern automated checkout systems.
- March 31, 1949 | United States
RCA Victor Debuts 45 RPM Vinyl Record
RCA Victor introduces the 7-inch, 45 rpm vinyl format, sparking the 'War of the Speeds' and transforming the music industry's singles market.
- February 24, 1949 | New Mexico, USA
Bumper 5 Space Altitude Record
A two-stage rocket combining a V-2 and a WAC Corporal reaches an unprecedented altitude of 393 kilometers, venturing deep into space.
- March 2, 1949 | Global Aviation
First Non-Stop Around-the-World Flight
The Lucky Lady II, a Boeing B-50 Superfortress, completes a historical 94-hour circumnavigation of the globe assisted by in-flight refueling.
- November 1949 | Sydney, Australia
CSIRAC Digital Computer Runs
Australia's first electronic computer begins operations, later becoming famous for playing the world's first computer-generated music.
Enjoyed your trip back in time?