Sputnik Satellite Turned 54

Sputnik 1 is undoubtedly one of the most important spacecraft in human history, as it represents the first artificial satellite to be placed in low-Earth orbit. The maneuver took place on October 4, 1957, which yesterday had its 54th anniversary.

The satellite was launched aboard a Sputnik rocket, from Site No.1/5 at the 5th Tyuratam range, which is currently known as the Baikonur Cosmodrome, in Kazakhstan. The Soviets launched it during the International Geophysical Year.

Sputnik's signal was lost on October 26, 1957, after the onboard batteries had run out. During its stay in orbit, the spacecraft orbited the planet in around 96.2 minutes, at an average speed of about 29,000 kilometers (18,000 miles) per hour, NASA reports.

With this mission, the Soviet Union drew first blood against the United States in the Space Race that unfolded within the Cold War. Ultimately, America won this race when it put astronauts on the Moon.