The Super Soaker Is Released

Setting the scene

NASA engineer Lonnie Johnson was experimenting with a heat pump using water pressure when a burst of water from his bathroom prototype gave him the idea for a high-powered toy gun.

What happened

The Super Soaker went on sale in 1990 under Larami (later Hasbro), using air pressure to shoot streams farther than traditional squirt pistols.

Why it still matters

Johnson's invention became a summer staple and he later held dozens of patents across energy and toy design. Memorable detail: the toy was originally named the "Power Drencher" before marketers rebranded it Super Soaker.

Background

Johnson later held dozens of patents.