As we approach 50 years since 2001: A space odyssey

What developments over the last 50 years could have been done so that our current level of space exploration development could look more similar to the film?
 
What developments over the last 50 years could have been done so that our current level of space exploration development could look more similar to the film?

A successful Soviet lunar landing before 1975 would be a good start, especially if within a year of Apollo 11. No 'Great Society' would also help.
 
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