The development of rockets and the subsequent advance of technology in the 20th century made it possible to send machines, animals, and later humans above Earth’s atmosphere. This era, known as spaceflight, inspired many people of all backgrounds to explore and understand the world around them.
The human exploration of outer space has had a profound effect on the global society in which we live. It stimulated improved and expanded educational and research programs, created new organizations and jobs, and generated economic benefits. It also fostered national and international pride and prestige, and new forms of personal achievement.
In addition, space exploration has provided a powerful example of the importance of science, engineering and math (STEM) education to our future generations. It has inspired young children and adults to dream big and to be a part of the future by pursuing private-sector and public-sector careers that contribute to the advancement of knowledge, technology, and the human race.
The primary goals of space exploration are to study the Solar System and other distant celestial bodies, and to develop technologies that will enable human spaceflight. Space science includes the study of the structure and evolution of planets and their moons, the formation of meteoroids and comets, and the physics and dynamics of space. Space exploration also includes a range of other activities, such as the development of multi-stage rockets capable of placing satellites in orbit; the construction of a permanent space station and the first lunar landings; and human flights to Mars to explore that body.