Space History: Sputnik 1

On October 4, 1957, humans launched the first artificial object into orbit.  Sputnik 1 was a metal sphere with a radio that transmitted a simple beeping signal for 21 days. It stayed in orbit for three months.

NASA says:

The Sputnik launch changed everything. As a technical achievement, Sputnik caught the world's attention and the American public off-guard. Its size was more impressive than Vanguard's intended 3.5-pound payload. In addition, the public feared that the Soviets' ability to launch satellites also translated into the capability to launch ballistic missiles that could carry nuclear weapons from Europe to the U.S. Then the Soviets struck again; on November 3, Sputnik II was launched, carrying a much heavier payload, including a dog named Laika. 

More here: https://history.nasa.gov/sputnik/

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