When NASA selected seven men to become the country's first astronauts they ushered in a bold new space age. No one knew what the outcome would be, or if the rigorous training hours would prepare them for travelling in excess of 17,000 miles per hour on a converted intercontinental ballistic missile. With incredible footage of the mission this programme transports you to that historic time and invites you to experience the highs and lows alongside the astronauts that were undisputed heroes of their day.