[test_epsilon]

It wasn't. The main purpose of the original space race was to develop capabilities to put satellites in orbit and to be able to deliver nuclear warheads on ballistic missiles, which both countries considered (rightly or wrongly) to be existential necessities.

[Niksko]

Being a logical course of action and being a dick measuring contest aren't mutually exclusive. There was certainly lots of national pride and patriotism involved, in addition to it being a tactical necessity.

[test_epsilon]

> Being a logical course of action and being a dick measuring contest aren't mutually exclusive.

They are by definition.