The Space Race began in 1957 after the Soviet Union launched Sputnik, the world's first artificial satellite, demonstrating their technological superiority and ability to launch weapons globally. This kicked off a competition between the US and USSR to demonstrate dominance in space exploration through achievements like being the first to launch humans and land on the Moon. While initially a symbol of political and military rivalry during the Cold War, the two sides eventually cooperated on joint space missions, turning their competition into a partnership.