Which U.S. City is Called the Space City?

Space City is a nickname for Houston Texas due to Houston's central position within the history of space exploration by the human race. This nickname is based on NASA establishing a new training facility for Astronauts (Johnson Space Center) in 1961 as the home base for developing and training the first human beings sent into space, overseeing Mission Operations/Mission Control, and developing technology for space exploration. 

Throughout the history of human space flights, Houston has provided the critical link to the Apollo missions, Space Shuttle program, and International Space Station therefore representing America's past and future in space exploration through Houston as an associated symbol for all astronauts that had participated in these flights and/or are currently working on spacecraft development through Houston thereby serving as the best example of American advancement within mankind's journey into outer space. 

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Why Houston is called Space City?

Houston is nicknamed "Space City" because it is home to the Johnson Space Center (JSC), which opened in 1961. The JSC has been the hub for human space flight since then. In addition to Apollo missions and the Space Shuttle, it continues to be involved in many current projects including the International Space Station, etc. 

When Apollo 11 astronauts returned to Earth following their historic landing on the moon in 1969, Houston gained worldwide recognition largely because of Neil Armstrong's famous words “Houston, we have a problem” though technically associated with Apollo 13, this phrase established strong ties between Houston and space exploration in popular culture.

How Houston has Affected the History of Space Exploration?

• Astronaut Training - NASA's Johnson Space Center (JSC) is a primary training site for astronauts, providing training for astronauts for microgravity, space walks, and mission procedure training.

• Mission Control - Houston is the main operational center for U.S. crewed space flight operations and is responsible for coordinating everything from launch to landing.

• Research and Innovation - Houston has many aerospace companies that participate in research in aerospace, robotics, and advanced engineering projects.

• Cultural Identity - Houston has a unique identity and is recognized for its contribution to space exploration through museums, science centers, and a multitude of events that highlight the city's history in this area.

Conclusion

Houston isn't just "Space City" because of its name, rather it stands for years of achievements in human life through discovery and invention. From astronaut training to mission control for crews exploring beyond Earth, Houston has become one of the major scientific and space exploration cities around the world.