This book is designed to serve as a reference base from which teachers can develop classroom concepts and activities related to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The book consists of a prologue, ten chapters, an epilogue, and two appendices. The prologue contains a brief survey of the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, NASA's predecessor. The first chapter introduces NASA--the agency, its physical plant, and its mission. Succeeding chapters are devoted to these NASA program areas: aeronautics; applications satellites; energy research; international programs; launch vehicles; space flight; technology utilization; and data systems. Major NASA projects are listed chronologically within each of these program areas. Each chapter concludes with ideas for the classroom. The epilogue offers some perspectives on NASA's first 25 years and a glimpse of the future. Appendices include a record of NASA launches and a list of the NASA educational service offices. (JN)