SPACE EXPLORATION

The Science of Rockets

Since the 1950's, NASA has used Atlas rockets. The first stage uses solid fuel boosters and liquid-fuel engines to launch the payload into space. The second stage uses liquid-fuel engines to maneuver it into orbit. The third stage is the payload which falls off and goes back into Earth's orbit and burns up in the atmosphere. Atlas rockets are still used today.

The Space Program

In 1969 the first man walked on the moon. The United States and Soviet Union were in a race to get there. The rivalry in the exploration of space was called the "space race." The space race began in 1950. NASA was established in 1958 to be in charge of the space program. NASA has been in charge of many satellites, rockets, and missions into space. Project Mercury sent the first man into space. Next came Project Gemini in which two astronauts went into space. Project Apollo was the mission that put the first man on the moon. Later Apollo 13 went into space but an oxygen tank blew up. Fortunately they made it back to Earth. Other missions to the moon have been unmanned.

Exploring Space Today

A new type of technology is planned for the International Space Station. This includes a robot called a personal satellite assistant. It is a very small robot, but it can do a lot. This robot hovers by an astronaut, and it has small fans that can make it move around. The personal satellite can monitor temperature, air quality, and pressure. It also has a camera on it and a video phone so that astronauts can communicate.

Using Space Science on Earth

Less than one percent of the U. S. budget is spent on the space program. Many people argue over the space program saying that it is not necessary. NASA even has a web site in which it explains why the space program is important. For every dollar they spend, seven dollars goes back into the economy. NASA has made many technological breakthroughs during the space program especially in the area of communication.