Conrad Lau

With Tom Dolan, Lau played a key role in the early mission studies for the Apollo program. They authored a critical January 1960 study, Technical Proposal for Manned Multi Modular Spacecraft (Project MALLAR), which outlined Project MALLAR (Manned Lunar Landing and Return). This was the first Lunar Orbit Rendezvous (LOR) mission profile: the Moon landing would be carried out by the very smallest lander module possible, with the main vehicle for flight to and from the Moon remaining in orbit. The lander would then take-off from the Moon and rendezvous with the main vehicle before the crew returned to Earth. This was a change from previous 'direct ascent' profiles which had landed the main vehicle on the Moon, then required the take-off of a much heavier vehicle. LOR depended on a modular spacecraft concept, as would then be used for Apollo. NASA developed this with Command, Service and Lunar modules. This early work by engineers like Lau helped to convince John Houbolt and others that LOR was the best way to get to the moon.

Lau joined the Chance Vought aircraft corporation upon graduation from MIT in 1943. He devoted his entire professional career to the company. He advanced from the position of Junior Aerodynamics Engineer to Director of the US Navy VAL Light Attack Aircraft program.

Lau attended school in Trinidad through his sophomore year at Queen's Royal College, transferring to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in his junior year. Lau received his bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1942 and his master's degree in Aeronautical Engineering in 1943.

Conrad Albert 'Connie' Lau (February 8, 1921 – April 18, 1964) was an American aeronautical engineer, inventor, and executive. Lau led or contributed to the development of a number of important aircraft and spacecraft projects.

Conrad Lau was born on February 8, 1921, in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, then part of the British West Indies, to Mr. and Mrs. Egbert Lau. He had three brothers: Neil, Roy and John.