Space Exploration ‑ Videos

This Day in History Video: What Happened on June 29

This Day in History Video: What Happened on April 25

This Day in History Video: What Happened on October 4

How the Space Shuttle Challenger Disaster Unfolded

Seventy three seconds after takeoff, the Space Shuttle Challenger encounters unexpected—and catastrophic—disaster.

10 Times the Earth was Almost Destroyed

From dramatic explosions to swift asteroid impacts and colossal ice ages, Earth has witnessed moments when its existence hung in the balance.

Apollo 11: JFK’s Secret Space Tapes

Author Charles Fishman talks about secret recordings between JFK and NASA administrators.

What Does the Moon Smell Like?

Author Charles Fishman talks about how the Apollo 11 astronauts discovered one strange thing about the moon—it has a smell.

Apollo 11: Impact on the Modern Space Race

Author Charles Fishman reflects on how the echoes of the Apollo program are felt in today’s space race, and what the future of space exploration has in store.

Apollo 11: They Almost Forgot the American Flag

Author Charles Fishman discusses how the Apollo 11 astronauts almost didn’t bring a flag to the moon.

Apollo 11: Handmade Parts

Author Charles Fishman discusses how critical parts of the Apollo program relied on handcrafted materials—even the computers!

NASA’s Early Years

In 1958, NASA was founded and quickly took up the goal of sending a man into Earth’s orbit—and safely returning him home. Seven men were chosen for Project Mercury, embarking on years of training to prepare for a journey no one had made before.

Did the US Go to the Moon to Beat the Soviets?

Why did JFK promise to put a man on the moon? Was it just to beat the Soviets? Learn about the events that led to the creation of the Apollo Program.