The heartbreaking story of Laika, the Russian space dog who circled Earth 2,570 times

In 1957, Laika, a Moscow stray, became the first dog in orbit aboard Sputnik 2. Her mission aimed to study spaceflight effects on living beings. Laika tragically died within hours due to overheating and stress. Despite the outcome, her journey yielded crucial data for human space travel. Russia later honored her with a monument, recognizing her sacrifice.