The show accelerates NASA's inclusion of women and minorities, such as recruiting female astronauts like Tracy Stevens, Ellen Waverly, Molly Cobb, and black astronaut Danielle Poole after the Soviets send the first woman to the Moon, depicted in the dedicated episode 'Nixon's Women.' This leads to subplots addressing sexism, including national debates after a female trainee's accident and workplace barriers for women like engineer Margo Madison. A Mexican family crossing the border appears briefly in the premiere, touching on immigration.

Casting includes diverse original characters without altering established historical figures, and these elements feel organic to the alt-history logic of heightened competition pushing boundaries faster than reality. There are no overt lectures, LGBTQ+ focal points, identity politics as core conflict, or creator-stated activism; themes emphasize space ambition, personal sacrifices, and family drama over social justice. Audience reception praises Season 1's entertainment value with minimal backlash, unlike later seasons criticized for heavier messaging.