Final answer:
The launch of Sputnik caused fear in the U.S due to perceived Soviet technological superiority and potential military applications, sparking urgency within the U.S. space program and leading to the creation of NASA.
Step-by-step explanation:
The successful launching of the Soviet man-made satellite Sputnik into space in 1957 caused fear in Americans because it suggested the Soviets had achieved technological superiority, particularly concerning intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) which could potentially deliver nuclear weapons to American targets. The launch of Sputnik was seen as a decisive technological victory and created a sense of urgency within the United States to catch up in the space race and the broader Cold War competition. This event led to a significant increase in funding and resources for American space and missile programs, prompting the creation of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in 1958 and the rapid development of U.S. space capabilities.