Who was Laika the Soviet dog?
Laika was a three-year-old female stray mongrel from Moscow who became the first animal to orbit Earth. Her true pedigree remains unknown though she was likely part husky or other Nordic breed.
Questions about Laika
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did Sputnik 2 launch with Laika inside?
Sputnik 2 launched into low orbit on the 3rd of November 1957 from Baikonur Cosmodrome. The spacecraft disintegrated during re-entry on the 14th of April 1958 after over five months in space.
How long did Laika survive after launch on Sputnik 2?
No further signs of life arrived after approximately five to seven hours into the flight. In October 2002 Dimitri Malashenkov revealed she died by the fourth circuit from overheating due to failed thermal control systems.
Why did Nikita Khrushchev demand a spacecraft launch on the 7th of November 1957?
Nikita Khrushchev demanded a spacecraft launch on the 7th of November 1957 to celebrate the fortieth anniversary of the October Revolution. He specifically wanted to deliver a space spectacular that would stun the world with Soviet prowess.
What happened to Laika's body after Sputnik 2 re-entered Earth's atmosphere?
Over five months later Sputnik 2 disintegrated during re-entry on the 14th of April 1958. Her remains burned up along with the spacecraft as it fell back to Earth.