Today In History logo TIH
American and Soviet spacecraft docked in orbit for the first time, as Apollo and
Featured Event 1975 Event

July 17

Apollo Meets Soyuz: Space Race Ends With Historic Handshake

American and Soviet spacecraft docked in orbit for the first time, as Apollo and Soyuz crews shook hands 140 miles above Earth in a dramatic thaw of Cold War tensions. The mission marked the final flight of both the Apollo spacecraft and Saturn rocket family. This joint venture established the cooperative framework that would eventually produce the International Space Station two decades later.

July 17, 1975

51 years ago

What Else Happened on July 17

Talk to History

Have a conversation with historical figures who witnessed this era. Ask questions, explore perspectives, and bring history to life.

Start Talking