How do I win space race on Civilization IV?

I've been trying to win the space race in Sid Meyer's Civ 4 and I keep ending up at about two pieces away when time runs on the game. Anyone know a better way, just tips or a little strategic help, to actually get it completed BEFORE the game ends? I don't want a step by step walk through, just some guidance.How do I win space race on Civilization IV?
That question could lead to some long answers indeed. But here are some pointers that I've picked up along the way, all having to do with technology:



1. Get ahead early! Don't ignore technology for money or troops early in the game. Research Writing and get those libraries completed.

2. Don't worry about gaining lots of money early on in the game. Make sure that your research level remains high. If you have gained money from huts, don't feel pressured to keep it. If you are only losing 1 gold a turn but have 150 gold from various sources, don't be afraid to leave it that way for a while for the sake of research.

3. Here's a trick I found out while researching your question: monasteries give +10% science too!

4. Use any great scientists you get to build their academies in cities! +50% science cannot be ignored, however tempting the short term goal of getting an instant tech may be!

5. There can be a lot of improvements to chose from later in the game, but just like libraries, the observatories, laboratories, and universities that come along later should not be ignored.

6. If you are still having trouble, choose a race/leader that has better research capabilities, such as the Russians, French, and Koreans who have special buildings that help with science, or Lincoln and Elizabeth, who have the Philosophical leader traits. (Just to name a few of each)



Finally, choose where your improvements/academies/etc. go wisely. Don't bother trying to help a city that's only producing 2 science a turn. Then the money vs. research battle rears its ugly head and you are paying but not getting your moneys worth. Make a rule for yourself on when to start building research improvements, such as when a city starts making 8 science a turn (that's a random number, I change my number every game). The early game will decide the end game, and if you aren't ahead early, you can forget a space race win. Building the space ship parts is easy enough, getting there with decent time left to build them is what is important.

Good Luck!