Tang instant beverage entered American popular culture in the 1960s with a remarkable journey to outer space. The vitamin-fortified drink was first marketed in the late 1950s as a healthy alternative to soda pop. After being chosen by the National Aeronautic and Space Administration (NASA) to be the drink of the astronauts, Tang flew on several flights in the 1960s and soon became a drink of choice for children hoping to emulate the feats of the astronauts. Despite the introduction of new flavors in addition to the classic orange, Tang's popularity diminished in the 1980s and 1990s along with America's excitement over the space program.

Further Reading:

Holland, Gini. The 1960's. New York, Lucent Books, 1999.

Varnum, Allan H., and Jane P. Setherland. Beverages: Technology, Chemistry and Biology. London, Chapman Hall, 1994.