The name of the first man-made object to orbit the Earth is Sputnik 1. Launched by the Soviet Union on October 4, 1957, it marked the beginning of the space age and the U.S.-Soviet space race. Sputnik 1 was a spherical satellite about 58 centimeters in diameter, equipped with four long antennas that transmitted radio signals back to Earth. The successful launch and orbiting of Sputnik 1 had profound implications for science, technology, and international relations, prompting advancements in rocket technology and satellite communications. Its success is considered a milestone in human history, ushering in new explorations of outer space and satellite technology.