Which agency was established in the United States to coordinate space exploration after the launch of Sputnik?

• A. NASA
• B. Space Exploration Agency
• C. National Science Foundation
• D. CIA

Answer: (A)

Sputnik’s launch showed the United States needed a centralized, civilian-led effort to advance space science and technology. In response, Congress created NASA through the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958, combining existing aeronautics work from NACA with other civilian programs to coordinate the U.S. space effort. NASA was formed to pursue peaceful exploration and scientific discovery, rather than military aims. The other options aren’t correct because Space Exploration Agency isn’t an actual agency; the National Science Foundation funds research but doesn’t run the national space program; and the CIA handles intelligence, not space exploration.