International Geophysical Year
The International Geophysical Year (IGY) was a collaborative scientific initiative that took place from July 1957 to December 1958. It involved over 60 countries working together to conduct research in various fields of geophysics, including meteorology, oceanography, and glaciology. The IGY aimed to promote international cooperation in scientific research and to gather data on Earth's physical properties.
One of the significant achievements of the IGY was the launch of the first artificial satellite, Sputnik 1, by the Soviet Union in October 1957. This event marked the beginning of the space age and led to advancements in space exploration and satellite technology. The IGY laid the groundwork for future international scientific collaborations and increased understanding of Earth's systems.