The U.S. space program, primarily led by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), began in the 1960s with the goal of exploring space and advancing scientific knowledge. Key milestones include the Apollo missions, which successfully landed humans on the Moon, and the Space Shuttle program, which facilitated the construction of the International Space Station (ISS). Today, the U.S. space program continues to evolve, focusing on missions to Mars, advancements in satellite technology, and international collaboration in space exploration. Private companies, such as SpaceX and Blue Origin, are also playing an increasingly important role in launching payloads and developing new technologies.