Final answer:
Sputnik was the first artificial satellite launched by the Soviet Union, followed by the US launching Explorer 1, marking a crucial period in the Space Race.
Explanation:
Sputnik was launched by the Soviet Union on October 4, 1957, becoming the first artificial satellite in space. In response, the United States successfully launched the satellite Explorer 1 on January 31, 1958. The Space Race between the US and Soviet Union marked a significant era in space exploration history.
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