Sputnik programme

From Encyc
A model of Sputnik 1

The Sputnik programme was a Soviet Union spacecraft programme.[1] Sputnik 1, the first satellite in the programme, was launched on October 4, 1957.[1] This was the first man-made satellite ever to enter orbit.[1]

The United States was very surprised when the Soviet Union sent Sputnik 1 into space. It did not want to fall behind. So, it began spending more money on science and education.[2] This was when the Space Race between the Soviet Union and the United States began.

Etymology[edit]

The word Sputnik comes from the Russian Спутник, literally "travelling companion", Template:IPA2 or Template:IPA2, not 'spʌt.nık.[1][3]

References[edit]

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 "Sputnik 1". NASA NSSDC. Retrieved 2011-12-24.
  2. Calmes, Jackie (2010-12-06). "Obama Calls for New 'Sputnik Moment'". The New York Times. Retrieved 2011-12-24.
  3. Siddiqi, Asif A. (2003). Sputnik and the Soviet Space Challenge. University of Florida Press. p. 155. ISBN 0-8130-2627-X.

Other websites[edit]