The Early Days of Space Exploration

Since ancient times, people have envisioned the possibility of space travel. Spaceflight finally became a reality after many centuries of scientific study on two fronts: astronomy and flight. Theories about the solar system were proposed, tested, and revised. Instruments for examining the night skies were invented and improved. Flight was accomplished as a result of countless experiments—some of them deadly. This resource traces space exploration—one of the most exciting pursuits in history—from the legend of Icarus to the reality of Sputnik.