The major event in the 20th century associated with the beginning of the Space Age was the launch of Sputnik 1 by the Soviet Union on October 4, 1957. This was the world's first artificial satellite to orbit the Earth, marking a significant technological milestone and fueling the U.S.-Soviet space race. Sputnik's successful launch shocked the United States and prompted widespread concern about national security and technological superiority. It led to increased investment in science and education in the U.S., resulting in advancements in aerospace technology and the establishment of NASA, thus paving the way for future space exploration.