Milestones in Space Exploration

Before rockets, humans pondered the heavens. Ancient Greeks proposed geocentric models, later debunked by Copernicus's heliocentric theory. This shift was foundational for understanding celestial mechanics, paving the way for future space exploration.

Before humans ventured into space, animals were sent to test survival possibilities. The first mammal in space was Albert I, a rhesus monkey, launched by the U.S. in 1948. Unfortunately, Albert did not survive the journey.

Sputnik 1, launched by the USSR in 1957, was the first artificial satellite. This historic event ignited the space race and led to the development of modern satellite technology, transforming global communication and surveillance.

Yuri Gagarin became the first human in space on April 12, 1961, orbiting Earth aboard Vostok 1. His single orbit marked a significant victory for the USSR in the space race and a monumental step for mankind.

Apollo 11's 1969 moon landing is well-known, but few recognize the 'Hidden Figures'. Mathematicians like Katherine Johnson played critical roles. Their calculations ensured safe crew re-entry, a fact often overshadowed by the astronauts' bravery.

Voyager probes, launched in 1977, have traveled farthest from Earth. Their golden records carry sounds of Earth, intended for any form of extraterrestrial intelligence. Voyager 1 entered interstellar space in 2012, a first for humankind.

SpaceX's Falcon 9, first successfully landed in 2015, revolutionized cost-effective space exploration. Reusable rockets significantly reduce launch expenses, making space more accessible and promising for future multi-planetary human existence.

Apollo 12 astronauts smuggled ceramic art to the Moon. Concealed in a lunar module, it remains humanity's first extraterrestrial artwork.