Sputnik 1, Soviet spacecraft

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Sputnik 1, Soviet spacecraft

Sputnik 1, Soviet spacecraft. This spacecraft, the first ever to reach Earth orbit, was launched on 4 October 1957 by the Soviet Union. It was a highly polished aluminium alloy sphere, 58 centimetres in diameter, with four long antennas attached to it. It transmitted radio signals back to Earth for a period of 23 days. The following year, Sputnik 1 burned up as it re-entered Earths atmosphere on 4 January 1958. This is an exhibition model, photographed in Russia in 1972

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Media ID 6298895

© RIA NOVOSTI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

1900s 1950s 1957 1970s 1972 Antenna Antennas Earth Orbit Exhibit Exhibition Centre First Satellite Museum Radio Transmitter Russia Russian Satellite Signal Soviet Soviet Union Space Craft Space Flight Space Race Sputnik 1 Uss R

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the iconic Sputnik 1, a groundbreaking Soviet spacecraft that forever changed the course of space exploration. Launched on October 4,1957, by the Soviet Union, it became humanity's first-ever satellite to reach Earth orbit. The polished aluminium alloy sphere measuring 58 centimetres in diameter is beautifully captured in this image, adorned with four long antennas extending from its surface. Sputnik 1 transmitted vital radio signals back to Earth for an impressive span of 23 days before meeting its fiery fate upon re-entry into our planet's atmosphere on January 4,1958. This particular photograph captures an exhibition model of Sputnik 1 during its display at a museum in Russia back in 1972. The historical significance and technological marvels associated with this single piece of equipment are awe-inspiring. It symbolizes not only a pivotal moment in human history but also represents the intense competition between nations during the Space Race era. As we delve into this snapshot from the past, we are reminded of how far we have come since those early days of space flight. With its distinctive antenna design and sleek structure, Sputnik 1 remains an emblematic representation of scientific achievement and innovation. This print serves as a testament to mankind's insatiable curiosity about what lies beyond our own planet—a reminder that even small steps can lead to giant leaps for humankind's understanding of the universe.

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