TechShout - Sputnik 1 was the first satellite successfully launched into Earthâs atmosphere in 1957 by the USSR. It marked a first for humankind and a major new phase of the race to conquer the stars. Now, 63 years later, we have seen the launch of countless satellites, first official government projects, and more, using satellite technology for telecommunications, mapping, and other private ventures. However, what goes up does not necessarily need to come down. Few people realize just how much space garbage and junk is floating in Earthâs orbit. Weâre going to look at what space garbage is, how it gets there, and what it means for our future.