These Laika Tattoos Are Out of This World

Once just a stray dog found on the streets of Moscow, Laika found worldwide fame and a place in history. Laika was one of many animals sent into space, but is mainly known for being the first to successfully orbit the Earth.

Several dogs were selected in an experiment to see whether animals (and therefore, humans) could survive being launched into space; Laika was the (unlucky) one chosen to embark on the fateful journey.

Sputnik 2 was built in under a month, in a rush to beat the U.S. in the “Space Race”. The Soviet-built spacecraft was launched on 3 November 1957.

Laika was also known as Kudryavka (Little Curly), Zhuchka (Little Bug), Limonchik (Little Lemon), and was dubbed Muttnik (a play on Sputnik) by the American press.

Five months later, and after 2570 orbits, Sputnik 2 disintegrated upon reentering Earth’s atmosphere and took Laika with it. It wasn’t until 2002 that one of the scientists revealed that, due to the thermal control system malfunctioning, Laika passed away sometime during the fourth orbit.

Move over Neil Armstrong – the Laika love is strong in the tattoo community, and I’ve found the nine best tattoos that are keeping her memory alive.

No space themed sleeve is complete without a Laika tattoo. Find your inspiration below and get ready to be blown away, into orbit.