A rocket engine is self-contained and is currently the only type of device suitable for space flight. In both types the combustion chamber is called the motor . One month later on November 3rd, Sputnik 2 was launched carrying Laika, a black and white dog. Explorer 1 was launched by the U.S. in January 1958. Hundreds of communications satellites reflect or relay radio signals, providing transmission of television signals, telephone conversations, and digital data.
Weather satellites provide daily reports of temperatures and cloud patterns.
The U.S. Landsats observe the earth, returning information on soil characteristics, water and ice quantities, pollution, insect blights of crops, and even forest fires. Study of the earth's crust helps geologists to identify deposits of oil and minerals. Navigation satellites can locate a position on earth within a few yards. See lower down for Astronomy from Space . The first space flight by a human was on April 12th, 1961.