The Space Race was a period when the United States and Soviet Union
competed for technological advancements and scientific accomplishments.
This competition was a result of the Cold War that started after World
War II.
Exploring space during this era (late 1950's through the
beginning of the 1970's) was an unprecedented adventure for its time.
The world was shocked when the Soviet Union were able to launch Sputnik (
a satellite) into space. After this momentous accomplishment, the US
followed sending their own satellite into space several months later.
Both
of these countries took a significant risk, as their satellites,
spaceships, and other equipment could completely blow up. This would
result in the deaths of citizens. Along with this, they had to risk the
financial risk that this race caused. Each country poured in hundreds of
millions of dollars into their space programs over the course of 2
decades. If countries failed to achieve any breakthroughs, then this
money would have been wasted.
Despite the risks, this space race
had several positive effects on the world. This includes the
implementation of satellites that allow us to use GPS, the invention of
memory foam mattresses, and increased funding for public education.
