Traveling far from Earth is considered a significant privilege, and only a select few have ventured into space. To date, 24 individuals have approached the Moon, with half of them actually walking on its surface. Notably, these astronauts were all white men, most of whom were born in the United States. Among them, only five remain alive today, who will shortly witness a potential change in history with NASA's Artemis 2 mission, which could launch in March. This shift could symbolize a move towards more inclusive space exploration.

The Apollo missions took place during the late 1960s and early 1970s, a period characterized by intense rivalry between the U.S. and the Soviet Union amid the Cold War. The space race was marked by significant achievements, demonstrating technological prowess and national superiority. Unlike today, the Apollo era lacked the international collaborations that have become more common, such as the European Space Agency's involvement in the Orion capsule being used in the Artemis missions, indicating progress in global partnership in space exploration.

Though the recognition has been slow to come, it is important to underline the contributions of Black scientists and researchers who have played crucial roles in the American space agency. Their efforts have significantly advanced our understanding of space, though historically, they have not received the acknowledgment they deserve. The article anticipates a future where the diversity of individuals involved in space missions will reflect a broader array of voices and experiences, possibly leading to a more equitable representation in the field of space exploration.