Full record for blast-off n.

Definition	the initial thrust required to launch a rocket or the like into space; the launching of the rocket itself
OED requirements	antedating 1944
Earliest cite	William P. McGivern, "Double-Cross on Mars"
Comment	Fred Galvin submitted a 1948 cite from Erik Fennel's "Synthetic Hero". Fred Galvin submitted a 1944 cite from "Double-Cross on Mars" by "Sgt. Gerald Vance" (apparently a house pseudonym used for this story by William P. McGivern) Earliest cite in the OED: 1951
Last modified	28 February, 2005

Citations for blast-off n.

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1944 ‘G. Vance’ Double-Cross on Mars in Amazing Stories Sept. 151/1	Terry settled back in his seat and studied the rear visi-screen. Visible in it was a long, gleaming line of fighter-ships, in blast-off formation, on the Martian space field.
1948 E. Fennel Synthetic Hero Fall 99/1	Carlin spent the night before blast-off alone in his desert villa.