The Space Race to the Moon — Reading Comprehension

The Space Race was a time when the United States and the Soviet Union tried to be the first to explore space. It started in the late 1950s. Both countries wanted to show their power and skills. The Soviet Union sent the first human, Yuri Gagarin, into space in 1961. The United States wanted to do something even greater.

In 1961, President John F. Kennedy gave a famous speech. He said, "I believe that this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the Moon and returning him safely to the Earth." His words inspired many people. The United States began working hard on a plan called the Apollo program. Scientists, engineers, and astronauts worked together to solve big problems.

On July 16, 1969, Apollo 11 launched from Florida. The crew was Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins. After four days, the Apollo 11 spacecraft reached the Moon. Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed in a part called the Sea of Tranquility.

On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong became the first person to step onto the Moon. He said, "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." Millions of people watched on television. The astronauts planted the American flag and did experiments. Then, they returned safely to Earth.

The Space Race showed what people can do when they work together and do not give up. It helped the United States become a leader in space exploration.

Interesting Fact: The footprints left by Apollo 11 astronauts on the Moon are still there today because the Moon has no wind.

Who was the first person on the Moon?

Which country sent Yuri Gagarin to space?

When did Apollo 11 land on the Moon?

Why did the U.S. start the Apollo program?

What did the astronauts do on the Moon?

What does Armstrong's quote mean?

The astronauts returned safely. True or false?

What is a spacecraft?