This is the Age of Space Flight. Satellites orbiting the earth are the heralds of more spectacular demonstrations to come. “Man in earth orbit” is the prologue to manned missions in the alien environment of lunar space.

Basically, the objectives of the US space programme are to:

• 1. Expand human knowledge of atmosphere and space.

• 2. Improve the use, speed, performance, safety and efficiency of aeronautical and space vehicles.

• 3. Develop and operate vehicles capable of carrying instruments, equipment, supplies and living organisms through space.

• 4. Study the potential benefits of space activities for peaceful and scientific purposes.

• 5. Preserve the role of the US as a leader in aeronautical and space science and technology, and in the application thereof to peaceful activities.