Historical Guide to NASA and the Space Program

NASA―the National Aeronautics and Space Administration created in the wake of the Space Act―has and continues to accomplish those precepts every day. With many hundreds of satellites launched into space and close to 200 human spaceflights, NASA is a proven leader in space exploration. Most of the US space exploration efforts have been led by NASA, including the Apollo moon-landing missions, the Skylab space station, and later the Space Shuttle. Currently, NASA is supporting the International Space Station and is overseeing the development of the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle, the Space Launch System and Commercial Crew vehicles. NASA is also responsible for the Launch Services Program which provides oversight of launch operations and countdown management for unmanned NASA launches.

The Historical Guide to NASA and the Space Program contains a chronology, an introduction, appendixes, and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section has over 500 cross-referenced entries on space missions, astronauts, technical terms, space shuttles, satellites and the international space station. This book is an excellent access point for students, researchers, and anyone wanting to know more about NASA and space exploration.

Ann Beardsley is a graduate of Western College (Oxford, Ohio) in liberal arts (BA) and the University of Houston (MBA). She was also a second-round candidate for the international Mars One campaign to send humans Mars by 2025. Prior publications include those in business management and health journals.

C. Tony Garcia, is a software engineer with a bachelor’s degree in computer science from New Mexico State University and is an instrument-rated private pilot. He is an active amateur astronomer and solar eclipse chaser with a lifelong interest in all things NASA. His free time is spent exploring the Southwestern back country, seeking dark skies for astrophotography, and fire spinning.

Joseph Sweeney is a strategic account manager with a bachelor’s degree in linguistics and a master’s degree in applied intelligence. His background in research and analysis has provided him with experience in various forms of reporting and technical writing. Additionally, he is a graphic designer and an aficionado of all things related to space and space exploration, two passions that he frequently brings together through infographics.