In the early 1940s, U.S. fighter planes struggle to break the sound barrier, a feat many consider impossible. Test pilot Chuck Yeager, with a legacy of skill and courage, rises to the challenge despite the risks. With limited technology but unparalleled bravery, Yeager successfully breaks the sound barrier in 1947, marking a monumental achievement in aviation history. His success signals a new era of aeronautical innovation and becomes an inspiration for a generation of pilots.

As Cold War tensions escalate, the United States shifts its focus towards space exploration. The newly formed NASA recruits military test pilots for Project Mercury, aiming to send the first American into space. Seven men are chosen, including John Glenn, Alan Shepard, and Gordon Cooper. These astronauts undergo rigorous training and personal sacrifices as they prepare for their daring missions. Their endeavor symbolizes the nation's competitive spirit and relentless pursuit of technological advancement, setting the stage for America's race to dominate space exploration.