Introduction
Sputnik Hanging Den, also known as the Memorial of Sergey Korolev, is a significant monument in Moscow, Russia. It honors one of the key figures in Soviet space history, Sergei Korolev, who was the lead scientist in developing Sputnik, the first artificial satellite. The monument is located in Moscow’s Gorky Park, and it attracts numerous visitors annually. Here, we delve deeper into the fascinating history of Sputnik Hanging Den.
The Background
The monument is a replica of Korolev’s office in Moscow’s RSC Energia, which is a state-owned manufacturer of spacecraft. The office is scaled to about 1:1, which means that the replica is the same size as the original office. Korolev was a brilliant space scientist who made significant contributions to the advancement of space technology in the Soviet Union. He was the lead designer of Sputnik, Vostok, and Voskhod spacecraft. Despite his contributions, Korolev’s accomplishments were often underappreciated by the Soviet government, and he died in 1966 before he could witness the country’s remarkable success in space exploration.
The Design
Sputnik Hanging Den is a unique structure as it is designed to depict the cramped and cluttered space of Korolev’s office. The replica is suspended from the ceiling with the help of rods and cables, making it appear like it is hanging in mid-air. Visitors can use a staircase to reach the office and view the design and layout of the office. The monument is made up of concrete, aluminum, and steel, with the main office made up of glass panels giving visitors a clear view of Korolev’s office.
The Significance
Sputnik Hanging Den is a tribute to the achievements of the Soviet Union in space exploration, and serves as a testament to the incredible work of its scientists and engineers. The monument also celebrates the life and contributions of Sergei Korolev, who is widely recognized as the father of Soviet space technology. In addition, Sputnik Hanging Den provides a glimpse of the working conditions and environment that existed during Korolev’s time.
The Legacy
Sputnik Hanging Den represents a significant part of Russia’s history and has become an iconic monument in Moscow. The monument is a symbol of Russian innovation and creativity, and it continues to inspire young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). It allows visitors to see the hard work and dedication that went into the development of the Soviet Union’s space industry.
