06/11/2025
This time of year, I always take a quiet moment to remember Laika.
It’s been 67 years since she was sent into space. Not many talk about it now, but I think we should. Not because I’m a scientist or anything like that, but because it still matters.
Laika wasn’t just a dog in a rocket. She was a gentle presence full of trust. Her real name was Kudrjavka, which means “curly” in Russian. But the world came to know her as Laika — the little barker.
She was a stray found on the streets of Moscow. She was chosen because she was calm and had survived tough conditions. As if hardship somehow made her more suitable to be sent away with no way home.
On November 3rd, 1957, they launched her aboard Sputnik 2. The capsule had food, water, and padded walls. But no return plan. From the start, it was never about bringing her back.
Some say she lived seven hours. Others say a few days. Either way, she spent her last moments alone, floating in silence, not knowing why she was there. Just drifting, while Earth moved slowly out of reach.
She circled the planet 2,570 times before the capsule burned up on re-entry the following April.
And the truth is, Laika didn’t choose any of this. She didn’t sign up to represent science, progress, or the space race. She was just a dog. A little creature that wanted warmth and affection — and instead became a symbol.
That’s why I remember her. Because not all progress is kind. And not all breakthroughs are made the right way.
Laika’s story reminds us to ask better questions. To think about who pays the price for our achievements.
We haven’t forgotten you, Laika. And we never should.
Treasure her sacrifice here: https://spaceaustralia.com.au/
Regards,
Barry from Support 💙
