Sherman and Mr. Peabody
Thirty days later, on 3 November a dog named Laika (“Barker”) became the first earthbound creature in outer space aboard Sputnik II. Laika was referred to as “Muttnik” by the American news media. Unfortunately, Laika died five to seven hours into the flight.
The First in Space - Laika
[Tass News Agency photo via Russian Space Agency]
Among the first living creatures to survive a space flight and land safely back on earth were Belka (Squirrel) and Strelka (Little Arrow) aboard Sputnik 5 on 19 August 1960. Belka and Strelka were accompanied by a rabbit, 42 mice, two rats and flies. Strelka later had a litter of six puppies. In 1961, Khrushchev presented John F. Kennedy’s daughter Caroline with Pushinka (Fluffy) a daughter of Strelka.
Stelka (left) and Belka (right)
As you look at the stars tonight, remember Laika and her historic journey that took place a little over 50 years ago.
4 comments:
Hey Joe, The woman remembers all that stuff!
She also says I belong in space myself. What the fershtunk is that supposed to mean?
Great info! What an educational blog. You Sunshine State collies are smarties!
Whoofs & Baroos,
Eddie, Peaches & Bella
thanks for sharing with us about d space dog...i never knew about it
Great post, collies! I always felt sad when I thought about Laika up there all alone. I remember hearing my owner say that she had howled in her little spacecraft, too, and I also seem to remember that her death was planned; her air ran out on schedule and she went to sleep because they had not planned to get her down. I love humans as much as the next dog, but I must be in awe of those that have given everything for the sake of some silly human endeavour! I also have wondered what kept the squirrel, rabbit, 42 mice, and two rats from returning to Earth as one squirrel, one rabbit, several squirabbits, 107 mice, and 12 rats?
licks and slobbers
-Charlie
Post a Comment