Since the beginning of time, people have looked up at the stars and dreamed of going to space to explore other planets. For many years, this was just a dream, but in the past 40 years, it has become a reality. In the 1960s, the Soviet Union and the United States were in a frantic race to get to space first. The Soviets took an early lead by sending the first person into space, but then the Americans caught up by sending the first man to the moon.

Since the early days of space exploration, many people have gone into space, both men and women, African Americans, Asians, and soon the first civilians will be going to space too.

However, space exploration continues.

Your Mission as a student:

Learn about three space missions — Friendship 7, Apollo 11, and STS-7. Meet astronauts Buzz Aldrin, Sally Ride, and Mae Jemison Explore 20 space firsts. Make your own timeline of important events in space exploration.