Exploration of Space
The exploration of space uses advanced technology and the science of astronomy to research and do experiments outside of the earth's atmosphere. Both robots and humans explore space in various forms of spacecraft.
Astronomy, the observation of objects in space is pre-historic, modern astronomical and scientific understanding of space didn't occur until the 20th century. Rockets, large liquid-fueled engines allowed the scientific community to reach out of the planet's atmosphere and further their knowledge. The reasons humans explore space are varied, however, the principle rationales include scientific research, the survival of the human race and peaceful cooperation between different countries. The use of space as a strategic and military outpost has also been a primary concern. People who don't support the exploration of space reason that the cost is too high, both in human life and physical materials and capital.
During the Cold War, the exploration of space was used as competition between the Soviet Union and the United States, known as the Space Race. This time frame resulted in the design and construction of some of the most advanced technologies in human history. Both countries put men and satellites into orbit and ultimately the U.S. landed missions on the moon.
The rockets of the era were soon replaced by the U.S. Space Shuttle program and the construction of the MIR space station that allowed for the reuse of materials and vehicles for continued space travel. As the Cold War ended, the construction of the International Space Station opened up a new era for cooperation between nations.
The 1990s and early part of the 21st century saw the rise of space tourism and the advent of private sector companies capitalizing on space as a marketing tool. The country of China launched a successful manned space program. Renewed interest in safety after a second space shuttle disaster and the general future of space exploration lent more government interaction with their respective space agencies. More missions for the Moon and possibly Mars are being scheduled for the next ten years.