The Embassy of the Russian Federation in Guyana is seeking to raise awareness of Russian cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, as the 50th anniversary of his becoming the first human to journey into outer space nears.
On April 12, 1961, Gagarin, the son of a peasant farmer, became the first human to journey into outer space in Vostok, a rocket 20 stories high and 8 feet in diameter. After 108 minutes, Gagarin, then 27, completed an orbit of the world and safely parachuted back to Earth. This was recorded as a defining moment of the 20th century and opened up the prospect of interplanetary travel for mankind.
The Embassy yesterday hosted a press conference that comprised of briefings on the life and career of the cosmonaut, who became a celebrity and was the recipient of numerous honours, including Hero of the Soviet Union. Gagarin also toured the world and received over a million letters from admirers across the world.
Russia and other soviet republics celebrate the anniversary of his achievement on April 12, which is Cosmonautics Day. Special tributes such as lectures, concerts and special exhibits at museums are usually held. Additionally, Yuri’s Night celebrations are also held on April 12, in observance of space exploration milestones.
Gagarin died in a crash near the town of Kirzhach in March 1968. His body was cremated and his ashes were buried in the walls of the Kremlin on Red Square.
