Launius, Roger D

Examines the history of the Apollo space program that put man in space and eventually on the moon, forever changing the U.S. Explores the criticisms and conspiracy theories associated with the program's accomplishments.

Throughout history, humans have been fascinated by space. From the Babylonian astronomers of 700 BCE who charted the paths of planets, to the ancient Inca and Aztec builders of early astronomical observatories, to the launch of Sputnik 1 and the Moon landing, through today's private and public space exploration endeavors, we have always looked to the skies to learn about our place in the universe. The Smithsonian History of Space Exploration is the first in-depth, fully illustrated history of global space discovery and exploration from ancient times to the modern era.

Contains excerpts from government documents and scientific reports that provide insight into the achievements and failures of the U.S. space program.

Offers a comprehensive history of space exploration, describing how scientists have attempted to study the solar system and beyond from ancient times to the present, exploring how technological advances have led to new discoveries, highlighting key developments in space exploration, and speculating on future possibilities.

Gives an overview of space exploration during the twentieth century; includes information on the development of rocket technology, the Mir space station, the Mars Pathfinder mission, and other related topics.

Chronicles space exploration's history, discussing such topics as the race to the moon and the advent of the Space Shuttle and Skylab, and includes biographies of astronauts, scientists, and others related to space exploration; primary documents; a table of American space flights; and an annotated bibliography.