Tuesday, March 7, 2017

Documentary on the History of the Soviet Space Dogs

Remarkable since there was so much feeling in the scientists for the welfare of the dogs.  Laika is the name I remember the most and not because of sadness she didn't make it back but because she was the first.

They became Soviet space dog heroes and how excellent that their service to Mother Russia was appreciated.

There is no trick editing in this video such as use of fast edits to try to create an exciting pace nor is there any looped computer music with its endlessly annoying beat.  They deliver a good story and do it straight-up.

It may take a total astro gearhead to be drawn to this but you may find it interesting even if you're not.  I was only seven when they shot Laika into space so most of the story is new information for me as well as you.




Special video goodness:

- lots of reminders in their early rockets to the original German V2 design

- see some guy using a slide rule for real

- dogs in space


I just missed a slide rule in my life since my need for any calculating device didn't come until university and this time was when engineering students first started walking around with those new hotshot programmable HP calculators.  Everyone else went for essay tests instead.

Ed:  or multiple choice?

Noooooo.  An essay test can over a lack of knowledge faster than anything other than actually knowing the material.  University exams are the source of the Ithaka Technique since the essay exams confirmed, yes, it is possible bullshit your way out of just about anything.

Pollyanna:  but not poor Laika (sob)

Don't be getting sentimental on me as the scientists had to know.  It's not that the dogs were expendable and the documentary shows clearly they were not regarded that way; it's that humans are not expendable.

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