The generation relay
Every era began with people looking up.
Space isn’t something you just watch. It’s something your generation will build.
1960s–1970s
Apollo
A generation learned to reach the Moon.
Engineering, flight operations and science made crewed lunar exploration possible.
Read the NASA history ↗1981–2011
Space Shuttle
A generation learned to operate reusable orbiters.
The programme enabled research, deployment, servicing and assembly missions, including work on the ISS.
Read the NASA history ↗1998–present
International Space Station
A generation learned to live and work continuously in orbit.
Continuous occupation began in 2000. NASA currently plans operations through 2030.
Read the NASA history ↗
The work ahead
Artemis & new orbital stations
The next chapter is being built. It is not guaranteed.
Lunar exploration and commercial low-Earth-orbit destinations involve development, testing and uncertain schedules. They need teams on Earth as well as crews in space.
Read the NASA history ↗The next chapter / You
What will your generation build?
You don’t have to be the person in the spacecraft to be part of the work.
Find a starting point ↗