Sputnik 2 was launched into orbit by the Soviet Union on November 3, 1957, following the success of Sputnik 1, the world’s first artificial satellite. This mission marked a new era in space exploration, aiming to gather data on the biological and environmental impacts of space travel. Carrying Laika, a mixed-breed dog, Sputnik 2 was equipped with instruments to monitor her physiological responses during the flight. Upon launch, the spacecraft became the first to successfully carry a living creature into space, demonstrating the Soviet Union's advancements in technology and spaceflight capabilities.

Laika's journey was significant not just because she was the first living being in orbit, but it highlighted the ethical discussions surrounding animal testing. During her time aboard the spacecraft, Laika was monitored for temperature, heart rate, and other vital statistics. Sadly, the technology of the day did not allow for her safe return; she died just hours after the launch due to overheating. Despite this, the data gathered during the mission provided critical insights into the potential effects of space travel on humans, informing future human spaceflight missions.

After 162 days in orbit, Sputnik 2 re-entered Earth’s atmosphere on April 14, 1958. The spacecraft burned up upon re-entry, with Laika and the data collected during the mission essentially lost. Nonetheless, Sputnik 2's impact continued to resonate through subsequent missions and the eventual successful missions that included human crews. The information returned by Sputnik 2 proved essential in paving the way for manned spaceflights, ultimately leading to advancements in our understanding of living in space.