Impressive full-scale polished replica of the Sputnik 1 satellite, measuring approximately 23″ in diameter, with four whip-type radio antennae, measuring 94″ and 114″. Built by craftsmen in Samara, Russia—home to the Progress State Research and Production Rocket Space Center—the model is comprised of a chrome-plated fiberglass body with metal and composite hardware; the long metal antennae are made up of screw-together segments for ease in shipping. It has three mounted loops for display by hanging. In fine condition, with a few minor nicks and scuffs; one of the leg brackets was cracked and repaired with marine-grade epoxy. As a life-sized model of the first artificial earth satellite, this huge display piece is a true must-have for serious space aficionados.
The first man-made artifact to orbit the Earth, the original Sputnik-1 was developed by the USSR as a scientific satellite to be launched during the International Geophysical year of 1957-58. Launched on October 4, 1957, Sputnik remained in orbit until January 4, 1958. Its radio transmitters provided data on the Earth's ionosphere and on the structure and temperature of the upper atmosphere. More significantly, its creation ignited the historic Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union.
