The Evolution of Computers at NASA: From Human Computers to Mainframes

NASA's journey into the realm of computer science is a fascinating tale that intertwines with the early development of the entire semiconductor industry. When NASA was established in 1958, it embarked on a mission to harness the power of electronic computing to advance space exploration. This article delves into the timeline of NASA's early computing efforts, from the days of mechanical calculators to the arrival of mainframe systems.

Beginning with NACA

NASA was initially built from the remnants of the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which had long utilized computing resources. Women with the title 'computer' played a crucial role in NACA's operations, performing complex calculations with tools like the Friden and Marchant mechanical calculators. These early computing voices were essential in laying the groundwork for NASA's future endeavors.

However, it is important to note that the term 'computer' as we know it today was not the same as it is now. The early 'computers' were women who worked as mathematicians, processing data and performing computations. Notably, these women often worked under the auspices of prestigious organizations like North American Aviation, as mentioned by Angie from the Deep Space Network (DSN) at JPL.

The Dominance of Electronic Computers

When NASA took over the operations from NACA, electronic computers began to take center stage. In 1958, the IBM 704 and 709 were the dominant models, featuring vacuum tubes, which were groundbreaking at the time. Other smaller computers, such as the Librascope LGP-30 and the IBM 650, also contributed to the computing landscape.

These early electronic computers could perform complex calculations at unprecedented speeds, making them indispensable for aerospace research. The evolution from mechanical to electronic computation marked a pivotal moment in NASA’s history, setting the stage for more advanced systems in the future.

The Introduction of Mainframes

The transition to mainframe systems was a significant milestone in NASA's computing history. By November 1960, NASA and IBM had collaborated to introduce the Mercury 7090 mainframe to Goddard Space Flight Center. This marked a shift from the smaller, local systems to more powerful, centralized computing environments.

It is worth noting that the term 'NACA' is pronounced as individual letters: 'The N A C A,' not as an acronym. This pronunciation is consistent with how acronyms from the past are often pronounced, although it may sound archaic to a modern audience.

The introduction of these mainframe systems was crucial for conducting complex calculations, managing large datasets, and coordinating space missions. These powerful machines allowed NASA to push the boundaries of space exploration and achieve groundbreaking feats such as the Apollo missions.

Myths and Misconceptions

Lastly, it is important to address some misconceptions about early computing. Ada Lovelace is often credited as the first computer programmer, but the story doesn't end there. John Atanasoff is known for creating one of the first digital computers during World War II, while Sherlock Holmes, famed for his deductive skills, did not invent the computer. These tales, while engaging, often overlook the true history and pioneers of early computer science.

Conclusion

The early days of NASA's computing efforts were marked by innovation and a transition from human to machine computation. From the work of early 'computers' to the arrival of mainframe systems, NASA's journey in the world of computing has been both pioneering and transformative. Understanding this history can provide valuable insights into how technology has shaped space exploration and continues to influence scientific advancements today.

Whether you're a history buff or a tech enthusiast, the story of NASA's computing legacy is a testament to the power of innovation and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.