NASA

NASA

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is an independent agency of the U.S. federal government responsible for the nation's civilian space program and for aeronautics and aerospace research.

History

NASA was created in response to the Soviet Union's October 4, 1957 launch of its first satellite, Sputnik I. The 183-pound, basketball-sized satellite orbited the earth in 98 minutes. The Sputnik shock led to the creation of NASA from the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics and other government agencies on July 29, 1958, by the National Aeronautics and Space Act.

Programs

NASA conducts its work in four principal organizations, known as mission directorates:

• Aeronautics: Pioneers and proves new flight technologies that improve our ability to explore and which have practical applications on Earth.
• Human Exploration and Operations: Focuses on International Space Station operations and human exploration beyond low Earth orbit.
• Science: Explores the Earth, moon, Mars, and beyond; charts the best route of discovery; and reaps the benefits of Earth and space exploration for society.
• Space Technology: Rapidly develops, innovates, demonstrates, and infuses revolutionary, high-payoff technologies that enable NASA's future missions while providing economic benefit to the nation.

See also

• Space exploration
• Spacecraft
• Space station
• Space Shuttle
• Apollo program
• Mars Rover

External links

• Official website

NASA Resources
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