On Oct. 4, 1957, earth’s first artificial satellite Sputnik 1 successfully launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome (Kazakhstan) and entered Earth’s orbit. IT was launched by former Soviet Union (USSR) but it was also a big achievement for the whole human race as it began the space age. The word ‘Sputnik’ originally meant ‘fellow traveler’.
Launch of Sputnik 1 became a major triumph for the Soviet Union and also stunned the rest of the world. Details of the development and the launch of Sputnik 1 was hidden from the general public. Decades later the information was made public.
Even though the satellite itself wasn’t equipped with sensors but provided scientists with valuable information. Sputnik 1 remained in orbit until January. 4, 1958, when it re-entered and burned up in Earth’s atmosphere.
