What is NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)?
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is an independent agency of the U.S. federal government responsible for civil space program, as well as aeronautics and space research.
Historical Background
NASA was established on July 29, 1958, as a response to the Soviet Union's launch of Sputnik 1. It replaced the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA). NASA has been responsible for many significant space exploration achievements, including the Apollo Moon landings and the Space Shuttle program.