description The Sputnik Satellite Overview
Launched by the USSR in 1957, Sputnik was the first artificial Earth satellite. While primarily a scientific achievement, its launch sent shockwaves through the West, triggering the 'Sputnik Crisis.' It dramatically escalated the space race and spurred massive US investment in science education and rocketry, fundamentally altering American educational and defense priorities.
help The Sputnik Satellite FAQ
What specific date did the Soviet Union launch Sputnik?
The Soviet Union successfully launched Sputnik 1 into low Earth orbit on October 4, 1957. This marked the first time in human history that an artificial satellite was placed in space, officially kicking off the Space Race.
What kind of signal did Sputnik transmit back to Earth?
Sputnik was equipped with a radio transmitter that broadcasted simple, continuous 'beep' signals on 20.005 and 40.002 MHz frequencies. Amateur radio operators around the world could tune in and listen to the satellite as it passed overhead.
How big was the Sputnik satellite?
Sputnik 1 was a polished metal sphere measuring about 23 inches (58 centimeters) in diameter. It weighed approximately 184 pounds (83.6 kilograms) and featured four external radio antennas to transmit its signal.
How long did Sputnik stay in orbit before burning up?
The satellite completed over 1,400 orbits of the Earth before its orbit decayed and it burned up upon re-entry into the atmosphere. It spent exactly three months in space, officially falling back to Earth on January 4, 1958.
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