Medieval Space Race: Laika

Sputnik 2 was launched into orbit on November 3, 1957 by the USSR. Aboard Earth's second human-made satellite was an 11 pound street-dog named Laika (barker). Sadly, there was no plan for her safe return. Many dogs and other animals were used early in the Soviet space program. Most of them survived, but the losses raised questions about the ethics and value of using animal test pilots.

Design by Ben Kalow for Medieval Space Race