OTD In Space - February 22: Soviet Space Dogs Launch on Record-Setting Mission

On February 22, 1966, two Soviet space dogs launched on a mission that would set a new record for the longest spaceflight.

Veterok and Ugolyok, whose names translate to "Light Breeze" and "Coal" spent 22 days orbiting the Earth. This record was not surpassed by humans until 1971, and the record has never been surpassed by dogs! The space dogs returned to Earth safe and sound, and their contributions to the Soviet space program helped pave the way for humans to safely fly in space, too.