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Space Flight at 50: The Journey Continues

Out of This World Photo Gallery

Despite budget cuts, scientific research continues into outer space

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 Alan Shepard with young astronaut.

Alan Shepard with a young fan. — Jean Gaumy/Magnum Photos

1. Alan Shepard

Alan Shepard sparked a generation of aspiring astronauts with the United States' first manned space flight on May 5, 1961. That same month President John F. Kennedy stoked the space craze, announcing that an American would walk on the moon within the decade. Fifty years on, despite budget stress and competing priorities, it's still clear that the giant leaps continue.

Next: International Space Station. >>

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