On October 4, 1957, the Soviet Union launched the earth's first artificial satellite, Sputnik-1.
The Sputnik launch marked the start of the space age and the US-USSR space race, and led to the creation of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
It prompted passage of the National Defense Education Act.
On October 4, 1957, the Soviet Union launched Sputnik I, the world's first artificial satellite.
Americans panicked. President Dwight D. Eisenhower responded from the Oval Office, reassuring the public and turning America's attention towards outer space.
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