Sputnik, The Beep-Beep-Beep Heard Around the World: An Analysis of the Orbital Trajectory of Sputnik and its Reception in the Soviet Union

Authors

Gillian Gregory, The College of WoosterFollow

Abstract

The purpose of this undergraduate thesis in the fields of Mathematics and Russian Studies at the College of Wooster is to explore the mathematical and cultural significance of the launch of the first artificial Earth satellite, Sputnik 1, and how it was perceived by the Soviet Union and the rest of the world. The historical perception of this launch is established through discussion of the connected series of scientific achievements that led to the inevitable launch of the first artificial Earth satellite made by the Soviets as well as the analyzation of the initial press coverage after the launch. Focus is also given to the theory of orbits and Kepler Laws to establish a more technical understanding of the complications faced in order to launch a satellite into orbit.

Advisor

Bowen, Jennifer

Second Advisor

Filimonova, Tatiana

Department

Mathematics; Russian Studies

Recommended Citation

Gregory, Gillian, "Sputnik, The Beep-Beep-Beep Heard Around the World: An Analysis of the Orbital Trajectory of Sputnik and its Reception in the Soviet Union" (2019). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 8403.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/8403

Keywords

Sputnik, Soviet Union, Kepler Laws, Calculus, Space

Publication Date

2019

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis