NASA is in crisis as the Soviets land the first man on the moon in 1969, the beginning of an alternate history.

Director von Braun opposes President Nixon's directive, with dire consequences.

Deke Slayton must recruit female astronauts after Russia lands a woman on the moon named Anastasia Belikova. Starting with 20 "Astronaut Candidates" (informally "ASCAN"), one being Tracy Stevens, wife of Apollo 15's Gordo Stevens. Two of the last of Mercury 13 named Molly Cobb and Patty Doyle. A black woman named Danielle Poole, who works at NASA's computers rooms. A woman named Ellen Waverly round out the last 5, after 200 days of Qualifications testing.

Deke Slayton makes a charge to Apollo 15 crew. Removing Gordo Stevens, replacing him with Molly Cobb.

Ed and the crew change Apollo 15's landing site after lunar ice is detected.

A launchpad accident leads to delayed missions and FBI background checks.

Ed, Gordo, and Danielle struggle with an extended Jamestown mission.

NASA preps a Jamestown relief mission. Karen waits for news at the hospital.

A crisis in space puts the Apollo 24 and 25 crews in peril.

Ed handles a trespasser. Ellen and Deke chart a new course without Mission Control.