Final answer:
Sputnik 1 was the first artificial satellite launched into orbit by humans. This milestone, achieved by the Soviet Union in 1957, marked the start of the Space Age and intensified the Cold War Space Race.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first artificial satellite the human race lofted into orbit was called Sputnik 1. Launched by the Soviet Union on October 4, 1957, Sputnik 1 marked a significant milestone in human history and the beginning of the Space Age. This achievement underscored the escalating rivalry of the Cold War and precipitated the Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union.
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