Sputnik anniversary

Fifty-two years ago today, the Soviet Union send a basketball-sized metal ball into orbit—and changed the planet forever.

Sputnik shocked America and the world. Suddenly, we were in a battle for the “high ground” of space. And we were badly behind. Following the launch of the first-ever satellite, the Soviets expanded their lead.

Soviet technician puts finishing touches on Sputnik

They sent heavier and more sophisticated satellites into space, including the first space traveler—an ill-fated dog named Laika, who never returned to earth. When the Soviets put the first person into space, Yuri Gagarin in April 1961, their astronaut orbited the earth and returned home safely. America’s first two manned spaceflights were only sub-orbital.

Of course, America eventually caught up and won the moon race. But maybe the shock of coming in second at the start of the space race was a good thing. It motivated us. Now, the country seems to have little commitment to space…and has lost its sense of adventure and wonder.