Soviet space mission hits 50
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Just a month after the Soviet Union stunned the world by putting the first artificial satellite into orbit, it boasted a new victory -- a much bigger satellite carrying a dog called Laika. The mission, 50 years ago today, ended sadly for Laika but helped pave the way for human flight.
When Laika reached orbit aboard Sputnik 2, doctors found with relief that her pulse, which had risen on launch, and her blood pressure were normal. According to official Soviet reports, the dog was euthanized after a week.
Laika’s mission was hidden under a veil of secrecy, and only after the collapse of the Soviet Union was the real story told.
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