Sputnik 1 (/ ˈspʌtnɪk, ˈspʊtnɪk /, Russian: Спутник-1, Satellite 1), often referred to as simply Sputnik, was the first artificial Earth satellite. It was launched into an elliptical low Earth orbit by …

Nov 24, 2025 · Sputnik, a series of three Soviet artificial satellites. Sputnik 1 (launched October 4, 1957) was the first artificial satellite and the beginning of the ‘space race’ between the U.S. …

Browse Sputnik for breaking news and top stories on politics, economy, social media and the most viral trends.

On October 4, 1957, the USSR launched Sputnik, the first artificial satellite to orbit Earth. The satellite, an 85-kilogram (187-pound) metal sphere the size of a basketball, was launched on a …

Dec 4, 2025 · The historic Sputnik launch on Oct. 4, 1957 marked the beginning of the space age, leading to the establishment of NASA as well as the U.S.–Soviet space race.

Sputnik 1 consisted of a polished sphere with four antennas and a simple transmitter. It carried no propulsion system or guidance mechanism, as its role was symbolic and strategic. It needed to …

Nov 24, 2009 · The Soviet Union inaugurates the “Space Age” with its launch of Sputnik, the world’s first artificial satellite.

The Soviet Union launched the world's first artificial satellite aboard an R-7 intercontinental ballistic missile on October 4, 1957. Called Sputnik...

Explore Sputnik 1, the world's first artificial satellite that ignited the space age. Learn about its historic mission, design, and impact.

On October 4, 1957, the Soviet Union made history by sending the first artificial satellite into outer space. At the height of the Cold War, this move caused heightened tensions throughout the …