Sputnik 1 satellite models

Russia launched the first satellite before the United States, and built Sputnik in just six months. There was only time to put a radio transmitter, temperature control system and batteries inside it. Signals were beamed to the ground via the two pairs of long antennas.

These models convey well the iconic appearance of Sputnik. Chief Designer Sergei Korolev insisted Sputnik should look impressive, as one day models would be displayed in museums around the world.

Display model, scale 1:1, 1994 and disassembled engineering model, 1957
Sources: The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics; Energia
Object nos: L2014-4291, L2014-4268