1978 ⟶ Global Positioning System (GPS) Enters Service

The Global Positioning System (GPS) enters service. While no...
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Year
1963
1968
1970
1973
1978
1981

🛰️ Syncom 2: First Geostationary Satellite Launched

July 26: Launch of the first geostationary satellite, Syncom 2.⟶
Syncom 2: First Geostationary Satellite Launched (1963)
Space RaceTelecommunicationsCold WarSpace ExplorationCommunication
United StatesUnited States

🚀 Apollo 8 Orbits the Moon

December – Apollo 8 orbits the Moon with three NASA astronauts, becoming the first human spaceflight mission to enter the gravitational influence of another celestial body.⟶
Apollo 8 Orbits the Moon (1968)
Space ExplorationNASACold WarSpace RaceAstronautsMoonHuman Spaceflight
United StatesUnited States

🚀 Apollo 13 Mission Launched

April 11: Apollo 13 (Jim Lovell, Fred Haise, Jack Swigert) is launched toward the Moon.⟶
Apollo 13 Mission Launched (1970)
Space ExplorationNASAMoon LandingCold WarSpace RaceAstronauts
United StatesUnited States

🚀 Skylab Space Station Launched

May 14: The first space station, Skylab, is launched.⟶
Skylab Space Station Launched (1973)
Space ExplorationSpace RaceCold WarNASAAstronautsSpace StationScientific Advancement
United StatesUnited States

🛰️ Global Positioning System (GPS) Enters Service

The Global Positioning System (GPS) enters service. While not the first Satellite navigation system, it is the first to enter widespread civilian use.⟶
Global Positioning System (GPS) Enters Service (1978)
NavigationUnited States MilitaryCold WarSpace Race
United StatesUnited States

🚀 Space Shuttle Test Flights

The first reusable spacecraft, the Space Shuttle undergoes test flights ahead of full operation in 1982.⟶
Space Shuttle Test Flights (1981)
Space ExplorationAerospace EngineeringNASASpace RaceCold WarOrbital Mechanics
United StatesUnited States