From Sputnik to Sat Nav (10/4/2007)

A picture of Sputnik 1 in the fall of 1957 as a technician puts finishing touches on it.

The launch of the world's first satellite 50 years ago today (THURS OCT 4) kick started a technological revolution which is benefiting life on Earth today, a leading Durham University expert has said.

Sputnik was blasted into space by the former Soviet Union on October 4, 1957, to signal the beginning of the Space Race with the USA which helped make the widespread use of modern-day gadgets such as mobile phones and Sat Nav possible.

Professor Martin Ward, Head of Astronomy, at Durham University, said:

"For an object just twice the diameter of a bowling ball and about the weight of an average person, Sputnik had a dramatic impact on people's lives.

"At the time of its launch it was seen by many as a threat from a potentially hostile power. However, as the first step towards satellite TV, mobile phones, and Global Positioning Systems (GPS), the positive aspects cannot be overstated.

"The launch of Sputnik was in many ways the starting gun for the Space Race between the USA and the former USSR.

"The USA was galvanized into action and one year later NASA was set up. In effect this race ended just over a decade later with a reversal of roles, when US astronauts landed on the Moon.

"Now it looks as if a 21st century version of the Space Race may be ignited by the emergence on the scene of China as a major space power and the likelihood that they will launch their third human space mission in the near future.

"It will be interesting to see how the USA responds to this in seeking to maintain a clear lead over the new competition."

Note: This story has been adapted from a news release issued by Durham University

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