Conquering the Moon: The Dark Side of the American-Soviet Competition

In a clear and accessible style, this book offers a history of the lunar conquest, an opportunity to also address "the hidden face of the American-Soviet competition." After establishing the history of this lunar conquest, the author details the ins and outs of this rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union. Indeed, it was only during the second half of the 20th century that advances in science and technology allowed lunar explorations. These also benefited from the merciless struggle between the two superpowers throughout the Cold War. Even if the journey was made in the name of all humanity, man's first steps on the moon revealed a winner and a loser. A fascinating story that foreshadows a future full of stars. --Florent Mazzoleni