The Johnson Space Center

Post-WWII, technological advances in nuclear power, rockets, and aerospace led to the Space Age, marked by the Soviet Union's launch of Sputnik 1. The US responded by founding NASA in 1958. The US space program's growth necessitated a new facility, leading to the establishment of the Manned Spacecraft Center in Houston, Texas, in 1961. This center, later renamed the Johnson Space Center, played a pivotal role in the Gemini and Apollo programs, including the historic Apollo 11 moon landing. Today, the Johnson Space Center continues to lead US human spaceflight, contributing to advancements in various fields.

What event marked the beginning of the Space Age?

• The establishment of NASA

• The first American spacewalk

• The launch of Apollo 11

• The launch of Sputnik 1

Why was Houston chosen as the site for the new space facility?

• It was closer to Washington, DC

• It had a suitable climate and resources

• It was the birthplace of NASA

• It was the only available location

Which program followed the Gemini program in the American space efforts?

• Skylab

• Mercury

• Apollo

• Voyager

Who was the first American astronaut to perform a spacewalk?

• John Glenn

• Neil Armstrong

• Buzz Aldrin

• Ed White

What was the original name of the Johnson Space Center?

• Houston Space Facility

• Space Center Houston

• Manned Spacecraft Center

• NASA Headquarters