The document outlines key events in early space exploration, including the Soviet Union launching the first artificial satellite and human (Yuri Gagarin) in space in 1957 and 1961. Less than a month later, American Alan Shepard became the second person in space. Valentina Tereshkova then became the first woman in space for the Soviet Union in 1963, and Neil Armstrong was the first person to walk on the moon as part of the Apollo 11 mission in 1969, although he misspoke his famous line.

1. By Camilla Crane
TIMELINE OF EARLY SPACE
MISSIONS

2. October 1957
 The Soviet Union sends the first artificial
satellite, Sputnik 1, into orbit.

3. April 12th, 1961
 Russian Yuri Gagarin becomes the first human
to go to space.

4. May 25th, 1961
 Less than a month after Yuri Gagarin,
American Alan Shepard becomes the second
man in space.


5. June 16th, 1963
 Valentina Tereshkova of the Soviet Union
becomes the first woman in space.

6. July 20th, 1969
 Neil Armstrong becomes the first man on the
moon during the Apollo 11 mission.
 Fun fact: Neil Armstrong flubbed his lines. He said “One small step for
man, one giant leap for mankind.” This would mean mankind is both
taking a small step and a giant leap!