Sputnik 2 & Laika Mission MCQs: UPSC Space History Questions (2024 Updated)"

Master 10+ MCQs on Sputnik 2 mission & Laika's historic space journey. Perfect for UPSC, competitive exams & space enthusiasts. Includes detailed explanations & key facts. Learn about the first animal in orbit!"

1. Which country launched Sputnik 2, the spacecraft carrying the first-ever living creature to orbit Earth, on November 3, 1957?

• A) United States
• B) Soviet Union
• C) France
• D) United Kingdom

Answer: B) Soviet Union

Explanation: The Soviet Union launched Sputnik 2 on November 3, 1957, marking the first time a living creature, a dog named Laika, orbited Earth. This mission highlighted the Soviet Union's advancements in space exploration during the Cold War era.

2. What was the primary objective of the Sputnik 2 mission?

• A) To study the surface of the Moon
• B) To test human-like biological responses in space
• C) To collect samples of Earth's atmosphere
• D) To test new satellite communication systems

Answer: B) To test human-like biological responses in space

Explanation: The primary objective of Sputnik 2 was to study the effects of space travel on a living organism (Laika) to gain insights into how a human body might respond to space conditions, especially weightlessness and exposure to space radiation.

3. Laika, the dog chosen for the Sputnik 2 mission, was selected based on several factors. Which of the following was NOT one of these factors?

• A) Laika's size
• B) Laika's calm demeanor
• C) Laika's weight
• D) Laika's ability to be returned safely

Answer: D) Laika's ability to be returned safely

Explanation: While Laika was chosen for her size, weight, and calm demeanor, the technology at the time did not allow for her safe return, making the mission a one-way journey.

4. Why did the Soviet Union rush the launch of Sputnik 2 to coincide with November 7, 1957?

• A) To mark the anniversary of Sputnik 1
• B) To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Bolshevik Revolution
• C) To compete with a planned US satellite launch
• D) To commemorate Yuri Gagarin’s first flight

Answer: B) To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Bolshevik Revolution

Explanation: Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev requested that Sputnik 2 be launched to coincide with the 40th anniversary of the Bolshevik Revolution, showcasing the Soviet Union’s technological achievements.

5. What key information did Sputnik 2 and Laika’s mission provide for future space exploration?

• A) Detailed atmospheric data from Earth
• B) Knowledge about the Moon’s surface
• C) Initial data on the effects of space travel on a living organism
• D) Communication technology for interplanetary travel

Answer: C) Initial data on the effects of space travel on a living organism

Explanation: Laika’s mission provided scientists with the first data on how a living organism reacts to the harsh conditions of space, including microgravity, noise, pressure changes, and thermal conditions. This was crucial for preparing future human spaceflights.

6. What physiological responses did Laika experience during the Sputnik 2 mission, according to reports?

• A) Her heart rate and breathing rate remained stable throughout the flight
• B) Her heart rate tripled, and her breathing rate quadrupled due to stress
• C) She showed no signs of stress and adapted well
• D) She lost consciousness immediately after launch

Answer: B) Her heart rate tripled, and her breathing rate quadrupled due to stress

Explanation: Laika experienced significant stress as indicated by her heart rate tripling and her breathing rate quadrupling during the flight due to loud noises and pressure changes, reflecting the physical toll of space travel on organisms.

7. How long did Sputnik 2 remain in orbit after the mission was completed?

• A) Two days
• B) One month
• C) Five months
• D) One year

Answer: C) Five months

Explanation: Sputnik 2 continued orbiting the Earth for approximately five months after Laika’s death before re-entering Earth’s atmosphere and disintegrating.

8. Which of the following statements best describes the legacy of Laika and other animals sent into space during the early space programs?

• A) They primarily served as companions for astronauts
• B) They helped test life-support and survival systems for human space missions
• C) They were used to explore planets beyond the solar system
• D) They had no scientific impact

Answer: B) They helped test life-support and survival systems for human space missions

Explanation: Animals like Laika played a crucial role in early space programs by testing life-support and survival systems, allowing scientists to better understand the risks and physiological impacts of space travel, which were essential in preparing for human missions.

These questions cover the historical significance, technological insights, and legacy of the Sputnik 2 mission, providing UPSC students with a well-rounded understanding of this pivotal event in space history.