Sputnik 1
Sputnik 1 was the first artificial satellite launched into Earth orbit by the Soviet Union in 1957.
Also known as: Sputnik, PS-1 satellite
How big is it?
58 cm across
Pressurised sphere diameter · specified
Typical recorded range: 57 cm to 59 cm.
A little perspective
About the same scale as Alligator snapping turtle.
Alligator snapping turtle: The alligator snapping turtle is a freshwater turtle from the southeastern United States, distinguished by its spiked shell and powerful jaws.
Measurements, assumptions & sources +
Sputnik 1
Sputnik 1 used a polished pressurised sphere about 58 cm across and weighed about 83.6 kg. Its four long radio antennas are excluded from body diameter.
NASA History — Sputnik and the dawn of the Space Age
The marked pressurised sphere diameter is calibrated. Unmeasured illustration details are representative.
Alligator snapping turtle
A defined adult alligator snapping turtle with a 60 cm straight carapace and 35 kg mass. Head and tail extend beyond the calibrated shell span; very large individuals can be heavier.
US Fish and Wildlife Service — Alligator snapping turtle
The marked defined straight carapace length is calibrated. Unmeasured illustration details are representative.
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Why this measurement?
Why we use 58 cm
For comparison, this page uses pressurised sphere diameter. The record labels this value specified, so the stated convention rather than an inferred average controls the comparison. The recorded range is 57 cm to 59 cm.
Sputnik 1 used a polished pressurised sphere about 58 cm across and weighed about 83.6 kg. Its four long radio antennas are excluded from body diameter.
The marked horizontal span follows the named feature; transparent margins and unmeasured details do not alter it. How calibrated comparisons work →
Recorded properties
Sputnik 1 dimensions and measurements
| Property | Selected value | Recorded range | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
| 58 cm | 57 cm to 59 cm | specified | |
| 83.6 kg | 83 kg to 84 kg | specified |
Around this scale
Go smaller. Go bigger.
These links use compatible length records, ordered around the selected value.
Nearest lower value · PeopleNewborn baby50 cmA newborn baby is a human infant in the earliest period immediately after birth.
Around the same scale · Living thingsAlligator snapping turtle60 cmThe alligator snapping turtle is a freshwater turtle from the southeastern United States, distinguished by its spiked shell and powerful jaws.
Nearest higher value · Everyday things60 cm floor tile60 cmA large tile is a square flooring piece, often ceramic or stone, used for covering expansive areas.Sources and method
Want to check the number?
The source records and measurement method remain available for inspection.
- NASA History — Sputnik and the dawn of the Space AgeSputnik 1 sphere diameter, mass and four-antenna configuration.
There’s always another scale
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