The first man-made object to reach space was V-2 rocket, developed by Germany during World War II. The V-2 successfully ascended beyond the Kármán line, which is recognized as the boundary between Earth's atmosphere and outer space at an altitude of 100 kilometers (62 miles). Its launch in 1944 marked a significant technological achievement and paved the way for future space exploration. This rocket was later adapted and used by both the United States and the Soviet Union in their space programs post-war. The V-2 is a pivotal milestone in aerospace engineering and the history of space travel.