The first illustrated history of NASA - the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration - ever to be published, this groundbreaking book tells the exciting story of space exploration from the early twentieth century to the present, focusing on the personalities involved as much as the technological advances that have made space exploration possible. Authoritatively and accessibly written by historian Michael Gorn, NASA: The Complete Illustrated History tells of the climate of discovery that has existed inside the NASA (and its precursor, NACA). Here Michael Gorn describes the tools and techniques of research and development, such as wind tunnels and test flights in the atmosphere, and discusses the temperaments and personal ambitions of scientists and engineers, pilots, and astronauts.