The Soviet Union Launches Its First Five-Year Plan
On October 1, 1928, the Soviet Union launched its first five-year plan, forcing industrialization and collectivization.
The Soviet Union Launches Sputnik 1
On October 4, 1957, the Soviet Union launched Sputnik 1, the first artificial satellite in orbit.
Luna 3 Photographs the Far Side of the Moon
Luna 3 photographed the far side of the Moon on October 7, 1959, and sent back the first images of a hemisphere never seen from Earth.
The Soviet Union Tests the Tsar Bomba
On October 30, 1961, the Soviet Union detonated the Tsar Bomba, the largest nuclear blast ever.
The Cuban Missile Crisis Ends
On October 28, 1962, Khrushchev announced the removal of Soviet missiles from Cuba, ending the thirteen day Cuban missile crisis.
The Partial Test Ban Treaty Takes Effect
The Partial Test Ban Treaty took effect on October 10, 1963, ending nuclear tests in the atmosphere, in space and under water.
Voskhod 1 Carries Three Cosmonauts Into Orbit
The Soviet Union launched Voskhod 1 on October 12, 1964, the first spacecraft to carry three people, in a rushed bid to beat Gemini.
The Outer Space Treaty Enters Into Force
The Outer Space Treaty entered into force on October 10, 1967, banning national claims on the Moon and weapons of mass destruction in orbit.
Nikita Khrushchev Dies in Moscow
On September 11, 1971, Nikita Khrushchev died in Moscow, seven years after the party removed him from power.