Were you aware that the first living being to go into space was not a human? That’s right! Before humans were sent to space, animals were used to test whether space travel was safe for humans. For example, Laika was a brave and smart little dog who made history by being the first animal astronaut to orbit the Earth.

Today we’ll learn together about Laika’s incredible journey and contribution to space exploration.

Preparations for the Space Mission Sputnik 2

Laika, which in Russian means “barker”, was a stray dog who was picked up from the streets of Moscow (Russia). After that, the Soviet Union selected her for their space program. They believed a small dog would be better suited to endure the stress of space travel than larger breeds.

Laika was trained for months to prepare for her mission, known as Sputnik 2. This was a vital mission because it marked the first time humans were sending a living creature into space. During her training, she acquired several skills, one of which was learning to eat special food. Additionally, she was fitted with a space suit that included a helmet and a harness. These were essential to keep her in place during the flight.

A One-Way Trip

On November 3, 1957, Laika was launched into space. However, the Soviet spacecraft Sputnik 2 was not designed to return to Earth. In other words, it was for Laika a one-way trip. Sadly, she passed away a few hours after the launch due to overheating caused by a malfunction in the spacecraft’s temperature control system.

Despite the tragic end to her mission, Laika made a vital contribution to space exploration. She provided valuable information to scientists about the way space travel affects living organisms. After Laika’s mission, the Soviet Union continued to send animals to space. Not only other dogs, but also cats, rabbits, mice, and even insects.

Laika inspired many future space missions and she is remembered today as a hero. Therefore, Laika is a symbol of the courage and sacrifice that animals have made in advancing space exploration.

QUIZ:

1. Laika was the first animal astronaut, but what kind of animal was she?

a) a cat

b) a small dog

c) a domesticated monkey

2. Which Soviet space mission launched Laika and allowed her to reach Earth’s orbit?

a) Sputnik 1

b) Sputnik 2

c) Apollo 11

3. What was the goal of Laika’s space flight?

a) to investigate the Moon’s surface and to discover if there are any bones

b) to determine whether space travel was risk-free for humans

c) to orbit our planet

Animals Played an Important Role in Aeronautic and Cosmic Research

Although Laika wasn’t the first animal sent to space, she was the first animal to orbit the Earth. Moreover, her bravery and sacrifice helped pave the way for future space missions and cosmic research.

In short, animals have played a significant role in aeronautic exploration. Interestingly, did you know that in 1783 the Montgolfier brothers sent a sheep, a duck, and a rooster aloft in a hot air balloon?

If Laika’s story inspired you, try to learn more about space exploration and science. You could read books, watch documentaries, or visit a planetarium or museum. Who knows, maybe one day you will become a space explorer yourself!

Don’t forget to share with us in the comments your answers to the quiz!

Join our vibrant community, and check out 4TinyHands’ Facebook page and Instagram account!