Final answer:
The first American satellite, Explorer 1, was placed in orbit in the year 1958, marking a significant milestone in the Space Race.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first American satellite was placed in orbit in the year 1958. The first American satellite, Explorer 1, was placed in orbit in the year 1958, marking a significant milestone in the Space Race. This event marked a significant achievement in the Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union.
The launch of Sputnik by the Soviet Union in October 1957 intensified the urgency for the US to reach space. Despite a series of failed attempts, the US succeeded with the launch of Explorer 1 on January 31, 1958. This milestone represented a major leap in the advancement of space technology and established a foundation for future exploration.