When this satellite was launched into orbit by the u.s.s.r. in 1957 americans were terrified. if a satellite could be put into orbit, then a nuclear bomb could be delivered on the tip of a missile. many americans invested in bomb shelters for what they say as an impending nuclear war. the u.s. government created n.a.s.a and starting thinking about how to better educate american students in science. this little satellite started the space race?