On August 19, 1960 at 12.44.06, Moscow time, fifth space device Sputnik-5 with Belka and Strelka dogs onboard was launched from Baikonur spaceport.
Belka and Strelka was the 3rd dog crew going to the near-Earth orbit. The pioneer Laika who went to space in November 1957. Belka and Strelka’s space journey enabled to make necessary conclusions of human abilities to perform orbital flights. During their mission the specialists got unique data on spaceflight impact.
After the flight the dogs lived in the Institute for Aviation and Space Medicine, and were brought to kindergartens and schools. In several months Strelka gave birth to six absolutely healthy puppets. One of them was presented to USA President’s wife Jacqueline Kennedy. Both Belka and Strelka lived a long life and died of old age.
