The Space Race, a defining chapter of the 20th century, was a fierce competition between the United States and the Soviet Union to achieve supremacy in space exploration. While rockets and spacecraft took center stage, the role of aircraft in this historic endeavor is often overlooked. From testing groundbreaking technologies to training astronauts, aviation played a crucial role in paving the way for humanity’s journey into space. This article explores how aircraft contributed to the Space Race and laid the foundation for modern space travel. Discover how aircraft played a crucial role in the Space Race, from high-altitude test flights to astronaut training. This digital artwork showcases the evolution of aviation leading to space exploration, highlighting key moments in aerospace history. The Early Connection Between Aviation and Space The dream of space travel has its roots in aviation. Early pioneers like the Wright brothers, who achieved the first powered flight in 1903,...