Escape from Earth: A Secret History of the Space Rocket

Based on previously unpublished letters, journals, and documents from the Malina family archives, "Escape from Earth" tells the untold story of the engineers, dreamers, and rebels who started the American space program. It focuses on Frank Malina, the founder of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and his research partner Jack Parsons, who was a bed-hopping occultist with delusions of grandeur. The book reveals the scandalous details of their lives, including drug parties, sex magic, and an ill-fated attempt to start a mail-order religion. Parsons betrayed Malina to the FBI, cooperating in their investigation of Malina for un-American activities. The research group had close ties to the spy network of the infamous Rosenbergs, the only Americans executed during the Red Scare.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 03 June 2021
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

ESCAPE FROM EARTH is a captivating tale that delves into the untold story of the engineers, dreamers, and rebels who initiated the American space program. Specifically, it revolves around the remarkable journey of Frank Malina, the visionary founder of what would eventually become NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Malina's remarkable achievement was in solving the "problem of escape from the Earth by rocket," a feat that captivated the world.

The narrative takes us on a thrilling ride, showcasing the eccentricities and complexities of the individuals involved. Jack Parsons, Malina's chemistry-expert research partner, was a fascinating character. He possessed a mix of brilliance and eccentricity, engaging in drug parties, sex magic, and even making cameo appearances alongside renowned figures such as Aleister Crowley and L Ron Hubbard. However, his downfall was marked by a tragic attempt to start a mail-order religion, which ultimately led to his betrayal by Frank Malina to the FBI.

Fraser MacDonald, in his meticulously researched book, unveils previously unpublished letters, journals, and documents from the Malina family archives. These revelations provide a deeper understanding of the individuals and their relationships, shedding light on the intricate web of secrets and betrayals that unfolded. Jack Parsons, in his cooperation with the FBI's investigation of Malina for un-American activities, betrayed his friend and colleague. The Jet Propulsion Lab's second director, secretly denouncing Frank as a Communist, added another layer of intrigue to the story.

Furthermore, Frank's research group had close ties to the spy network of the infamous Rosenbergs, the only Americans executed during the Red Scare. This connection adds a political dimension to the narrative, highlighting the complex interplay between idealism, politics, and personal complexities.

ESCAPE FROM EARTH is a captivating story that intertwines soaring ideals with the most human of complications. It explores the intricate relationships between individuals, their ambitions, and the larger societal context of the time. Through its detailed portrayal of the characters and events, the book offers a profound insight into the origins of the American space program and the human struggles that shaped its trajectory.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 130 x 198 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781781259719
Edition number: Main