073 The Race to Space - One Minute History

Post-WWII, the US, UK, and Soviet Union sought to recruit German rocket scientists to gain technological advantages. The US hired Wernher von Braun, while the Soviets occupied Berlin's rocket center. In 1949, the Soviet Union developed nuclear capabilities, ending the US monopoly on atomic weapons. This led to a nuclear and conventional arms race, extending into space exploration. The US announced plans for an Earth-orbiting satellite, prompting the Soviets to declare their own satellite ambitions, marking the start of the space race.

Describe the nature of the arms race between the two superpowers during the Cold War.

What was the significance of the announcement made by the US regarding Earth orbiting satellites?