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Sputnik 1 stamp
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Sputnik 1 stamp
Sputnik 1 stamp. Artwork of Sputnik 1, the worlds first artificial satellite, on a stamp issued by the communist government of the former Soviet Union. Sputnik 1 was launched on October 4th, 1957. The name Sputnik is Russian for travel companion or satellite. The body was a highly polished aluminium alloy sphere which measured 58 centimetres in diameter and weighed 83.5 kilograms. It also had four long antennas attached. Sputnik 1 transmitted radio signals back to earth for a period of 21 days. The success of Sputnik 1 prompted the US government to enter the Space Race with the launch of Explorer-1 four months later
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Media ID 6458153
© DETLEV VAN RAVENSWAAY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1900s 4 October 1957 4th October 1957 Antennae Artificial Satellite Earth Orbit First Satellite Geocentric Orbit Orbit Orbiting Radio Transmitter Russian Satellite Soviet Soviet Union Space Flight Space Race Sputnik Sputnik 1 Stamp Telecommunications Postage Stamp
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable piece of history: the Sputnik 1 stamp. Created by the communist government of the former Soviet Union, this stamp commemorates the world's first artificial satellite, Sputnik 1. Launched on October 4th, 1957, Sputnik 1 marked a groundbreaking achievement in space exploration. The artwork on the stamp beautifully depicts Sputnik 1, an aluminium alloy sphere measuring 58 centimetres in diameter and weighing 83.5 kilograms. Adorned with four long antennas, this technological marvel transmitted radio signals back to Earth for an impressive duration of 21 days. Sputnik, meaning "travel companion" or "satellite" in Russian, sparked a fierce competition known as the Space Race between superpowers during the Cold War era. Its success prompted the United States to enter this race just four months later with their own satellite launch called Explorer-1. This image not only captures the historical significance of Sputnik but also highlights its impact on shaping our understanding and exploration of space. It serves as a reminder that even amidst political tensions and rivalries, humanity can achieve extraordinary feats through scientific innovation and determination. As we gaze upon this postage stamp portraying Sputnik's orbit around Earth within its geocentric path, we are reminded of how far we have come since that momentous day on October 4th, 1957 – when mankind took its first steps into outer space.
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