What happened to Belka and Strelka, the dogs who flew into space? - briefly
Belka and Strelka were the first dogs to successfully complete an orbital flight on August 19, 1960, aboard the Soviet spacecraft Sputnik 5. After their mission, they became national heroes and lived out the rest of their lives at the Institute of Aviation Medicine in Moscow.
What happened to Belka and Strelka, the dogs who flew into space? - in detail
On August 19, 1960, history was made when two dogs named Belka (Squirrel) and Strelka (Little Arrow) successfully completed their mission aboard the Soviet spacecraft Sputnik 5. This achievement marked a significant step forward in the Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union. The successful return of these canine cosmonauts not only demonstrated that living beings could survive space travel but also paved the way for human spaceflight.
Belka and Strelka were chosen from a group of street dogs, reflecting the Soviet Union's philosophy of using common, resilient animals rather than purebred ones for their space program. The pair underwent rigorous training to ensure they could withstand the physical demands of space travel. During their flight, Belka and Strelka spent 25 hours in space, experiencing weightlessness and enduring various tests designed to monitor their physiological responses. Their mission was a resounding success, as both dogs returned safely to Earth.
Following their historic journey, Belka and Strelka became national heroes in the Soviet Union. They were given special care and attention, living out their days comfortably at the Institute of Aviation Medicine. Sadly, Belka passed away on March 17, 1960, just a few months after her spaceflight. The cause of her death was attributed to an overdose of sleeping pills administered by medical staff, which underscored the challenges faced in caring for animals who had undergone such intense experiences.
Strelka, on the other hand, lived a longer and more eventful life. She became a mother after mating with another space dog named Pushok, giving birth to six puppies on June 21, 1961. One of these puppies, named Pushinka, was later gifted to President John F. Kennedy's family by Nikita Khrushchev, further cementing the symbolic value of these canine astronauts in international relations. Strelka passed away on August 2, 1964, at the age of eight, after having made significant contributions to both Soviet and global space exploration endeavors.
In conclusion, Belka and Strelka's remarkable journey into space not only advanced scientific knowledge but also captured the world's imagination. Their legacy continues to inspire future generations, serving as a testament to the incredible achievements possible through dedication, perseverance, and innovation in the field of space exploration.