LAIKA

translated from the original russian

dear leoniv
today is the big day
after all the weeks of expectation and training
this morning i will be shot into space
i am anxious but also very excited
it is a proud moment for our country
and also a proud moment for women everywhere
i am hoping everything goes well
say hello to the children for me
tell them that mother can't wait to be back home with them soon
the scientists are coming in with my space gear now
i have to go
i love you so much, my darling
and our precious children
see you all soon
all my love
laika

november 3, 1957