American Futurism in the Atomic Era

Futurism by Theme: Space Travel, Space Tourism, and Colonization

            Space as a theme was marketed to the American public in the 1950s to promote interest in, science, nuclear energy, and missile research and development. The Cold War and tense situation with the USSR shifted the focus of nuclear technology from a promotion of general scientific research to a necessity in making advancements faster than other nations. These goals were met with a further sense of urgency given the earlier Soviet victories. The promotion of the rivalry of the space race encouraged interest in a dream and vision of the future which was becoming increasingly apparent to be merely a myth as the science moved further away from the marketed concept (see figures 66 and 68). Science fiction enthusiasts embraced space themes but beneath the surface scientists couldn’t agree on what should actually be achieved with the funding provided, even when it was at its peak. Debates occurred over the necessity of manned space flight versus robotic. However, in the wider public view, promises were made of future space exploration and this vision was normalized with everyday space themed products, entertainment and activities. 

This page has paths:

This page references: