Apollo-Soyuz: Space Age Detente

For grades 6–12. Approximate time needed is 30 minutes.

This activity works well with units about the Apollo program or US-Soviet relations in the Cold War. Students should have background on the Cold War and some knowledge of the space program.

For an introduction, ask students about their knowledge of the Apollo program.

• What was the main purpose?
• Who started it?
• Which Presidents were involved?
• How long did it last?

After identifying these answers, ask if students know other things the Apollo program was used for. If they do not identify diplomacy, then add that to their list.

After this introduction, divide students into groups. Instruct students to analyze the documents by comparing them to each other. By the end of the activity, students should be able to identify the authors, their main points, and how their letters differ.

Once the activity is finished, reconvene. Ask students to brainstorm ideas about why space provided unique opportunities for encouraging diplomacy. See if they have additional knowledge about cooperation between the United States and other nations on other space programs.