In your own words, explain why the period between 1980 and 1989 is important in the history of space exploration. what are two technological advancements or discoveries from this period.

1981 - The launch of Space Shuttle Columbia, which was the first reusable spacecraft. 1983 - First infrared space telescope (IRAS) 1983 - Sally Ride was the first US woman in space. 1984 - First untethered spacewalk preformed by Bruce McCandless. 1986 - Launch of Mir, which was the first space station. 1989 - COBE was launched and mapped the universe's microwave background radiation and proves that the universe had a big bang!