Why is the space race called the space race?

The term "space race" refers to the competition between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War to achieve significant milestones in space exploration. It was characterized by a series of technological advancements and achievements, such as the launch of Sputnik by the Soviets in 1957 and the Apollo moon landing by the U.S. in 1969. The term "race" highlights the urgency and rivalry between the two superpowers to demonstrate their scientific and technological superiority. This competition had profound implications for politics, science, and international relations during that era.