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 launch caught Americans by surprise and sparked fears that the Soviets might also be capable of sending missiles with nuclear weapons from Europe to America. The United States prided itself on being at the forefront of technology, and, embarrassed, immediately began developing a response, signaling the start of the U.S.-Soviet Space Race.

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 propulsion
• List of NASA missions
• Timeline of Solar System exploration

External links

• Official website

Nasa Resources
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