The Space Race

1. The Space Race

2. The Space Race • In 1957, the Soviet Union launched Sputnikinto outer space. • Sputnik was the first artificial satellite and was sent into space to circle the Earth. • Americans were shocked when they heard the news and realized they were behind in the space race, a race to explore outer space.

4. The Space Race • Americans knew that it would be dangerous to lose this race because if the Soviets were successful then they could send satellites into space and spy on America, or even worse, attack America! • The US launched its first satellite in January 1958.

5. The Space Race • Later that year, NASA, National Aeronautics and Space Administration was founded. • In 1961, the Soviets took another step forward by sending the first person into outerspace to orbit, or circle, Earth. • The US was behind, but began to catch up.

7. The Space Race • John Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth. • More than 60 million viewers watched on television as Glenn was launched into space. • Some parents let their children stay home from school to watch!

9. The Space Race • The US and the Soviet Union continued to build and test new rockets and satellites. • Later the two countries found out that satellites could be used for communication.

10. Apollo 11 and Beyond • In 1969, Apollo 11 blasted off carrying astronauts, Neil Armstrong, Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin, and Michael Collins. • As Collins circled the moon in Apollo 11, Armstrong and Aldrin guided the Eagle, a smaller spacecraft onto the moon.

13. Apollo 11 and Beyond • This put America in the lead of the space race. • The race continued until 1990 when the Soviet Union fell apart. • Space exploration still exists today while we use satellites to track weather, take pictures, etc.

14. Apollo 11 and Beyond • We now explore space as friends with other countries.