Explores the beginnings of the Space Race, including the development and launch by the Soviet Union of Sputnik, the world's first satellite. America's response was Project Mercury, run by the newly formed NASA. With its goal of putting astronauts into Earth's orbit, Project Mercury spawned such household names as John Glen, Alan Shepard, and the other "Mercury 7" astronauts. Also examines animals in space, and the parallel space exploration programs of the Soviet Union, including the efforts of rocket designer Sergei Korolev.

Includes index.

Project Mercury -- The Mercury 7 -- The Mercury spacraft -- Animals in space -- Yuri Gagarin -- Freedom 7 -- Kennedy's challenge -- Liberty Bell 7 -- Friendship 7 -- Mercury spacesuits -- Aurora 7 -- Human computers -- Sigma 7 -- Faith 7 -- Timeline -- Glossary -- Online resources -- Index.