Who invented the first satellite and why?

World’s first ever satellite was launched on October 4, 1957 by Soviet Union. Weighing 183 pounds, it took around 98 minutes to orbit Earth. While launch of the satellite was just a single event, it marked the beginning of space age and steered new military, political, scientific and technological developments. read more

The Sputnik 1 was the first artificial satellite, while the Luna 1 was the first manmade object to leave Earth and send a radio signal. The U.S. launched its first satellite in 1959, and used low-orbit satellites for weather transmissions in subsequent years. read more

The US made the first artificial satellite, the Explorer A but didn’t launch it until after the Soviets launched Sputnik I. Main problem was a debate whether to use a US Army or a US Navy rocket. The debate took 4 years. read more