Q: What significant event took place on November 3, 1957, involving the Soviet Union?
A: On November 3, 1957, the Soviet Union launched “Sputnik 2,” the second artificial satellite to orbit the Earth.
Q: Who was the notable passenger on board Sputnik 2, and why was this passenger significant?
A: The notable passenger on board Sputnik 2 was a female dog named Laika. Laika was significant because she was the first living being to be sent into space.
Q: How was Laika selected for this mission, and what were the criteria for her selection?
A: Laika was selected from a pool of stray dogs in Moscow based on her small size, calm temperament, and adaptability to the stresses of space travel.
Q: What was the goal of Laika’s mission aboard Sputnik 2?
A: The goal of Laika’s mission was to study the effects of space travel on a living organism.
Q: Why was Laika’s mission considered a one-way trip?
A: Laika’s mission was considered a one-way trip because the technology to safely return a spacecraft from orbit had not yet been developed at that time.
Q: What equipment and systems were on board Sputnik 2 to support Laika during her mission?
A: Sputnik 2 was equipped with sensors to monitor Laika’s vital signs, temperature regulation systems, and provisions for food and water. It also had a limited life support system.
Q: What ultimately happened to Sputnik 2 and Laika?
A: Sputnik 2 continued to orbit the Earth for several months before re-entering the atmosphere on April 14, 1958. Both the spacecraft and Laika burned up upon re-entry.
Q: What was the significance of Laika’s mission in the history of space exploration?
A: Despite Laika’s tragic fate, her mission provided valuable data on the effects of space travel on living organisms. This paved the way for future endeavors in human space exploration and established Laika as a symbol of pioneering efforts in space science.