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On October 4, 1957, the Soviet Union launched the first artificial satellite, Sputnik I. It weighed 184 lbs and remained in orbit until April 1, 1958. It also transmitted an intermittent signal that could be picked-up throughout the world. The presence of an object orbiting above the United States and western Europe generated intense anxiety within the defense community and underscored the importance of science and engineering in the further development of this technology.