Quck answer

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) was established on July 29, 1958, by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The creation of NASA was a response to the Soviet Union’s launch of the satellite Sputnik in 1957, which sparked the space race between the two superpowers. NASA was formed by combining several existing organizations, including the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA). Its primary goal is to conduct peaceful space exploration and scientific research. Over the years, NASA has achieved numerous milestones, including the Apollo moon landings and the development of the Space Shuttle program.

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Have you ever fantasized about exploring outer space? Do you dream of orbiting Jupiter or visiting Pluto? Perhaps you envision yourself zooming past planets and galaxies on an epic adventure. If you have ever considered becoming an astronaut, there is one name that you are probably familiar with—NASA!

NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) is the space agency of the United States. It is the organization that successfully landed the first man on the moon. It has also sent unmanned spacecraft to Mars and even Jupiter. NASA continues to delve deeper into space on a daily basis with the Hubble Telescope. But have you ever wondered how NASA came to be?

Many of our Wonder Friends have learned about the Cold War. It was a prolonged conflict between the United States and the U.S.S.R. In October 1957, while the Cold War was still ongoing, the U.S.S.R. launched Sputnik, becoming the first nation to send a satellite into space. This spurred the U.S. to intensify its efforts in space exploration.

Consequently, President Dwight D. Eisenhower proposed legislation to establish NASA in 1958. After undergoing some modifications by Congress, the organization officially came into existence in July of that year. T. Keith Glennan became its inaugural administrator on August 19, and NASA commenced operations on October 1.

Of course, the rest is history. NASA quickly became a global leader in space exploration. Its astronauts became some of the most well-known individuals in the world. You may have heard of a few of them! There’s John Glenn, the first American to orbit the Earth. And, of course, Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon.

Many other NASA astronauts shattered barriers when they journeyed into space. In 1983, Guion Bluford became the first African American in space. That same year, Sally Ride traveled to space, becoming the youngest American and the first American woman to do so. Mae Jemison became the first African American woman in space in 1992.

What lies ahead for NASA? The organization is continuing its work on the International Space Station (ISS). It is also collaborating with private companies, Boeing and SpaceX, to develop commercial spacecraft.

A NASA initiative called Artemis aims to return to the moon by 2024. Scientists hope to conduct further studies on the moon and test technology there. And what about the Red Planet? NASA plans to revisit Mars in the coming years—and they even have a helicopter in tow.

NASA has achieved a great deal over the past few decades. If you were in charge, where in the universe would you set your sights on? Perhaps you would plan a voyage to Saturn. Or how about the Andromeda galaxy? The possibilities are as infinite as space itself!

Give It a Try

Seek out an adult who can assist you in trying one or more of the activities listed below!

Preparing to be an Astronaut

Are you interested in pursuing a career at NASA in the future? Here are 10 ways to get ready for your dream job as an astronaut. Take a look at these suggested activities and see if any of them catch your interest. You can also discuss them with a friend or a family member.

Your Space Adventure

Close your eyes and imagine embarking on an incredible journey into space. Where would you like to go? Mars, the International Space Station, or maybe even another galaxy? What would be your mission? Write an imaginative story about the thrilling events that could unfold during your space adventure. Be sure to include as many details as possible!

Exploring Space from Home

You don’t need a space shuttle or a telescope to explore the wonders of space. You can do it right from the comfort of your own home, thanks to these amazing photographs. Choose one of the objects depicted in the pictures that you would like to learn more about. Make a list of questions you have about it, and then ask a grown-up to help you conduct some online research.

Useful Sources

• https://www.nasa.gov/exploration/whyweexplore/Why_We_29.html (accessed 17 April 2020)
• https://www.britannica.com/topic/NASA (accessed 17 April 2020)
• https://www.nasa.gov/about/whats_next.html (accessed 17 April 2020)
• https://interactive.wttw.com/playlist/2019/07/29/astronauts-who-made-history (accessed 17 April 2020)
• https://science.howstuffworks.com/ten-nasa-achievements2.htm (accessed 17 April 2020)

FAQ

1. Who started NASA?

NASA, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, was established on July 29, 1958, by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. He signed into law the National Aeronautics and Space Act, which created NASA as a civilian agency responsible for the nation’s space exploration and research activities.

2. Why was NASA created?

NASA was created in response to the Soviet Union’s successful launch of the first artificial satellite, Sputnik, in 1957. The United States saw the need to establish a dedicated agency to lead the country’s efforts in space exploration and to catch up with the Soviet Union in the Space Race. NASA was tasked with developing space technologies and conducting space missions to enhance national security and scientific knowledge.

3. What was the purpose of NASA’s establishment?

The purpose of establishing NASA was to advance exploration, scientific discovery, and technological innovation in the field of space. NASA’s main goals include conducting human spaceflight missions, exploring the solar system and beyond, studying Earth and its environment, developing and applying space technologies, and fostering international cooperation in space activities.

4. How has NASA evolved since its inception?

Since its inception, NASA has evolved significantly in its scope and accomplishments. Initially focused on the Space Race and sending astronauts to the Moon, NASA has expanded its activities to include robotic exploration of other planets, satellites for Earth observation, space telescopes, and the International Space Station. NASA has also played a vital role in advancing scientific knowledge and developing technologies with applications in various fields, such as communication, transportation, and medicine.

5. Who is currently in charge of NASA?

As of 2021, the Administrator of NASA is Bill Nelson. The Administrator is appointed by the President of the United States and confirmed by the Senate. The Administrator leads NASA’s activities, sets the agency’s strategic goals, and represents NASA in various governmental and international forums.

6. How does NASA collaborate with other countries?

NASA actively collaborates with other countries in various space-related activities. It has partnerships and agreements with space agencies from around the world, including the European Space Agency (ESA), the Russian space agency Roscosmos, and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA). These collaborations involve joint missions, sharing of scientific data and resources, technology development, and astronaut exchange programs. International cooperation allows NASA and its partners to pool their expertise and resources, advancing space exploration and scientific discovery for the benefit of all humanity.