The first artificial satellite launched into space is Sputnik 1. Launched by the Soviet Union on October 4, 1957, Sputnik 1 marked the beginning of the space age. This basketball-sized satellite transmitted radio signals back to Earth, which were detectable by amateur radio operators. Its successful launch sparked the space race between the United States and the Soviet Union and led to significant advancements in space exploration and technology. Sputnik 1 remained in orbit for about three months before re-entering the Earth's atmosphere and burning up in January 1958.