March 20

On March 20, 1916, Albert Einstein submitted "The Foundation of the General Theory of Relativity" to the prestigious journal Annalen der Physik. In this groundbreaking work, Einstein extended his theory of special relativity to include gravitation. He introduced the revolutionary idea that massive objects curve the fabric of spacetime, producing the force we perceive as gravity. The paper formalized the field equations that relate matter and energy to spacetime geometry. Einstein's predictions, such as the deflection of starlight by the sun, would later be confirmed during solar eclipses. The theory transformed modern physics and our understanding of the universe, influencing fields from cosmology to quantum mechanics. This submission marked a milestone in scientific history and solidified Einstein's reputation as a preeminent thinker.

On March 20, 1922, the United States Navy commissioned USS Langley (CV-1), its first aircraft carrier, at Philadelphia Navy Yard. Converted from the collier USS Jupiter, Langley pioneered the concept of naval aviation. It featured a full-length flight deck, aircraft hangar, and catapult launch systems. Langley conducted the first tests of sea-based aircraft operations, proving the viability of carrier warfare. These successful experiments laid the groundwork for future fleet carriers that would dominate naval strategy. The ship's innovations transformed maritime tactics and anticipated the pivotal role of air power in World War II. USS Langley's commissioning marked a new era in naval engineering and military aviation.

On March 20, 1964, the European Space Research Organisation (ESRO) was officially created under the framework agreed on June 14, 1962. ESRO brought together multiple European nations to coordinate collaborative space science projects. Its objectives included launching satellites, conducting astronomical research, and fostering technological innovation. Early ESRO missions advanced understanding of the upper atmosphere, solar phenomena, and cosmic rays. The agency also developed instrumentation and launch capabilities in partnership with member states. ESRO laid the groundwork for the later formation of the European Space Agency (ESA) in 1975. By promoting shared resources and expertise, it strengthened Europe's competitiveness in the global space sector. ESRO's legacy lives on in ESA's diverse programs spanning exploration, Earth observation, and telecommunications.

On March 20, 1987, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) grants accelerated approval to zidovudine (AZT). AZT becomes the first antiretroviral drug authorized to combat the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Developed originally as a cancer drug, it shows promise in slowing disease progression in AIDS patients. The approval offers a critical lifeline amid growing global alarm over the AIDS epidemic. While AZT carries notable side effects, it represents a significant medical milestone. Researchers and activists hail the decision as a breakthrough in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The drug paves the way for future antiretroviral therapies and combination treatments.