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Sputnik 1 launch
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Sputnik 1 launch
Sputnik 1 launch. Sputnik 1, the worlds first artificial satellite, being launched by an R-7 Semyorka rocket from Tyuratam military range (now Baikonur Cosmodrome), Kazakhstan, on 4 October 1957. The satellite consisted of an aluminium ball, with a diameter of 58 centimetres, carrying four whip-like antennas. It weighed 83.5 kilograms. It orbited the Earth at a height of 250 kilometres for 21 days, gathering information about the electron density of the ionosphere. The launch of Sputnik 1 prompted the US to enter the Space Race with the launch of the Explorer-1 satellite four months later
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6458003
© DETLEV VAN RAVENSWAAY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1900s 4 October 1957 Artificial Satellite Baikonur Cosmodrome Blast Blast Off Blasting Off Cold War Kazakhstan Launch Launch Pad Launching Rocket Russia Russian Satellite Soviet Space Flight Space Race Sputnik 1 Support Supports Uss R Mono Chrome
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This print captures the historic moment of the Sputnik 1 launch, marking a significant milestone in human exploration. On October 4,1957, from the Tyuratam military range (now Baikonur Cosmodrome) in Kazakhstan, an R-7 Semyorka rocket propels Sputnik 1 into space. The world's first artificial satellite emerges as a shining aluminium ball with whip-like antennas, weighing 83.5 kilograms. For 21 days, this technological marvel orbits Earth at a height of 250 kilometers, meticulously collecting data on the electron density of the ionosphere. This groundbreaking mission not only showcased Soviet ingenuity but also ignited fierce competition known as the Space Race. The launch of Sputnik 1 reverberated across nations and prompted swift action from the United States. Just four months later, they responded by launching their own satellite called Explorer-1. This single event propelled humanity into an era defined by unprecedented advancements in space exploration and technology. In this monochrome image captured during that pivotal moment in history, we witness both power and grace intertwined within one frame. The blast-off signifies mankind's relentless pursuit to conquer new frontiers while symbolizing unity amidst Cold War tensions. As we gaze upon this remarkable photograph from Science Photo Library's collection, let us appreciate how far we have come since that fateful day in October 1957 when humanity took its first steps towards unraveling the mysteries beyond our planet's atmosphere.
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