Definition of space capsule

The term "space capsule" originated in the 1950s during the early stages of the space race between the United States and the Soviet Union. It was coined to describe a type of vehicle designed to carry astronauts and equipment into space and return them safely to Earth. Initially, the Soviet Union used the term "spaceship" to refer to its manned spacecraft, such as the Vostok and Voshod vehicles used to carry Yuri Gagarin and other cosmonauts into space. However, the U.S. Air Force opted for the term "capsule" due to the spherical shape and overall design concept of its Mercury spacecraft, which was similar to that of a life raft or a self-contained vessel designed to protect its passengers during re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere. The word "capsule" also referenced the fact that these reusable vessels could contain all the necessary supplies and equipment required for the mission, as well as any data and samples that needed to be returned to Earth. This self-contained feature allowed for shorter, more focused missions and reduced the need for extensive infrastructure required for larger space vehicles. Today, both the U.S. And the Soviet Union continue to use space capsules in their manned space programs, with NASA's SpaceX Crew Dragon and Boeing Starliner vehicles being the most recent examples. These capsules are equipped with advanced technologies and life support systems that enable astronauts to spend extended periods of time in space and return safely to Earth.