Economic troubles, weak leader, and National Assembly
USA was behind in Science and Math. So the federal government dumped massive amounts of money at the high school and college level. Americans so the Cold War heat up in Space. Very far behind.
The first space shuttle had enough capablities to go to Mars.
Mars was the orginal goal!
Moon became the target because USA moved it to so.
Watch Hidden Figures and October Sky for some inspiration.
I think it’s true but I would get a second opinion
Germany didn't have much of a choice. They couldn't carry on fighting and the Powers were going the attack them if she didn't take responsibility even though they weren't the sole cause pf the war.