Laika: The First Dog in Space

Laika was a stray dog from Moscow, Russia. As the first living being to travel into space in 1957. For us, it was a huge signpost in the storyline of humanity. This was a small step for mankind at understanding what it would bring to live in space for humans.

The Space Mission

Soviet scientists launched the Sputnik 2 spacecraft in November of 1957. The capsule also contained Laika, food and water. They sought to find out what happens when a living organism is exposed to space. They understood the dangers of this mission, even as they set their sights on future flights into space. Unfortunately plans to return Laika to Earth were non-existent. They knew she would never come back alive.

Laika’s Journey

After launch, Sputnik 2 achieved orbit around Earth. Ed: Laika experienced the pressure of launch as well, and weightlessness once in space. They monitored her state via radio broadcasts. Initially, things looked hopeful for Laika. She grunted a little and even took some food. She had it tough after going in a years later though.

The Sad Ending

But sadly, Laika did not make it. It was too hot and stressful in the spacecraft. A few hours after Laika was launched, he died. Her journey ended in sadness but it also changed our point of view for the animals when going to space. It remains a tragedy to many.

Laika’s Legacy

Her courageous journey will never be forgotten. She played a part in driving the future missions to space. We are more humane in our research today— we make sure that animals remain unharmed. Laika reminds us to temper this aggression with a little kindness, even in the name of science. That she, too , paid the price has not been forgotten and today is still regarded as a symbol of those heady days spent exploring space.