Space Exploration

On April 12, 1981, NASA launched the first space shuttle into orbit.

In 1958, NASA was founded and quickly took up the goal of sending a man into Earth's orbit -- and safely returning him home. Seven men were chosen for Project Mercury, embarking on years of training to prepare for a journey no one had made before.

Author Charles Fishman discusses how critical parts of the Apollo program relied on handcrafted materials – even the computers!

Author Charles Fishman talks about how the Apollo 11 astronauts discovered one strange thing about the moon, that it has a smell.

Author Charles Fishman reflects on how the echoes of the Apollo program are felt in today's space race, and what the future of space exploration has in store.

Why did JFK promise to put a man on the moon? Was it just to beat the Soviets? Learn about the events that led to the creation of the Apollo Program.

Author Charles Fishman talks about secret recordings between JFK and NASA administrators.

Author Charles Fishman discusses how the Apollo 11 astronauts almost didn't bring a flag to the moon.

Dr. Farouk El-Baz, an Egyptian American scientist and geologist, played a crucial role in helping NASA plan the Apollo program.