that's a good question
The United States has accomplished the most in space exploration.
Apollo
The focus of the Apollo program was just the Moon and getting there and back. Now the focus of the Space program is to build a viable permanent base in space, with a view to deep space exploration.
John F. Kennedy
The moon landings were part of the "Apollo" space exploration.
The second American space program aimed at making further progress toward manned exploration of the Moon was the Gemini program.
NASA: Conducts research and exploration of space, including studying planets, stars, black holes, and galaxies, as well as developing technologies for space missions. ESA: Focuses on Earth observation, studying climate change, meteorology, and environmental monitoring, as well as conducting space exploration missions. Roscosmos: Primarily focuses on space exploration, including sending missions to the International Space Station and conducting lunar exploration missions. CNSA: Primarily focused on lunar exploration, Mars missions, and developing technologies for space exploration.
In some ways Kennedy's commitment to the space program was an extension of the Cold War. Kennedy wanted to surpass the Russians in space exploration. It was a contest of technology.
The United States space program is primarily managed by NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration), a federal government agency responsible for the nation's civilian space exploration and research. NASA works in collaboration with other government agencies, private companies, and international partners to pursue space missions and advancements in space exploration.
Since the Apollo Program, the focus of the US Space Program has shifted towards more diverse objectives, such as the Space Shuttle program, the construction of the International Space Station, and robotic exploration like Mars rovers. There is also a greater emphasis on international collaboration and partnerships with private space companies.
The space shuttle was important for its ability to carry astronauts and cargo to space and back, allowing for the construction and servicing of the International Space Station. It also helped to advance scientific research and technology in space exploration. Additionally, the space shuttle program paved the way for future spacecraft design and missions.