November 3, 2007 was the 50th anniversary of Laika the Russian space dog’s doomed launch in Sputnik 2. I had planned to write an extensive post about how she has gone on to influence our popular culture. But honestly, her story made me too sad, and I let the anniversary slip by.
Since then, Laika keeps popping up in my life, in news stories, in emails, art exhibits, and matchbox labels. I think she wanted her day of recognition. And no one deserves it more than this poor little street mutt sent on a reckless mission for the glory of heartless men.
This Laika film/Zune ad by Ro Rao gives her story a bittersweet twist of a happy ending. Music is by the Aliens.
Originally spotted on NOTCOT.
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