Space may be the final frontier, but the legacy of NASA’s Black astronauts is rapidly growing.
The Space Race, a new documentary, tells the untold stories of Black astronauts (nicknamed “Afronauts”). Many of these accomplishments happened before they were able to gain proper recognition for their efforts.
The stories of these men are accompanied by archival footage of historic American space explorations, as well as defining moments that highlight Afrofuturism and open dialogues about the social injustices people of color have experienced and continue to overcome today.
The film features astronauts Victor Glover, Leland Melvin and Ed Dwight, who shared how important it is for people to understand the parallels of Black history and space exploration, as they have been connected in ways people may not have realized.
Each of these men have a unique story of overcoming adversity and prevailing. The film covers several historic events from Ed Dwight being publicly ousted by NASA, after the death of President Kennedy, to Victor Glover honoring George Floyd from the international space station. These men have shown incredible courage by making strides to correct the injustices they faced while pursuing a career in a field dominated by White men.
In conversation with these incredible men, it was easy to see their admiration for one another. They are each symbols of the progress Black astronauts have made in this country. They have each taken their careers a step further than the others, as the world slowly made space for diversity in astronomy.
“The Space Race ” premieres Feb. 12 on National Geographic and will be available the next day on Hulu and Disney+.
