Science & Space
The space programme, the atomic project and big science.
Science & Space
Chernobyl: the worst accident in the history of nuclear power
On 26 April 1986 the explosion at the Chernobyl plant became the worst nuclear accident in history. In depth: what happened, why the authorities stayed silent, how the disaster was cleaned up, and how many were harmed.
Science & Space
Valentina Tereshkova: the first woman in space
On 16 June 1963 Valentina Tereshkova, aboard Vostok 6, became the first woman in space. A former factory worker and skydiver — and still the only woman to have flown a solo mission.
Science & Space
Yuri Gagarin: the first human in space
On 12 April 1961 Yuri Gagarin became the first human in space. His path from a Nazi-occupied village to orbit, a dramatic return, worldwide fame and a mysterious death.
Science & Space
Sputnik 1: the start of the space age
On 4 October 1957 the USSR placed the first artificial satellite of Earth into orbit.