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Sputnik Launches the Space Age

Sputnik Launches the Space Age
Sputnik Launches the Space Age In Russian, the word "sputnik" translates to "traveling companion." Despite the friendly name and cute look of this 83-kilogram (184-pound) metal ball with its set of four leg-like antennae, the launch of Sputnik 1 on October 4, 1957 shocked the world and set in motion events that resulted in the creation of NASA and the race to the Moon. The first artificial satellite, encased in a 56-centimeter (22-inch) sphere, stayed in orbit for 23 days, transmitting a continuous beeping signal to an astounded Earthbound audience. NASA