A Ball, A Dog, and A Monkey: 1957—The Space Race Begins

Science News,  Oct 27, 2007  

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A BALL, A DOG, AND A MONKEY: 1957--The Space Race Begins MICHAEL D'ANTONIO

This year's commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the launch of Sputnik brings back memories of the enthusiasm and adventure, as well as the paranoia, surrounding the birth of the space race. D'Antonio paints a detailed portrait of efforts by U.S. government and military experts, along with scientists, to catch up with the Russians. The earliest efforts were shrouded in secrecy, but as test rocket after test rocket exploded on the launch pad at the newly established Cape Canaveral, word got out. Soon, the entire country was riveted by the unfolding contest between Russia and the United States to put the first person in space. D'Antonio describes the key players in this drama, including former Nazi rocket chief Wernher von Braun, who had an essential role in the production of a viable American rocket. He also gives due credit to President Dwight Eisenhower, who attempted to temper some of the military hype surrounding the conquering of space, and to the scientists, journalists, and astronauts whose work would forever change how we look at space and at our place in the universe. Simon and Schuster, 2007, 306 p., hardcover, $26.00.

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