There are several synonyms for the word "sputniks", which originally was the first artificial satellite ever launched into space by the Soviet Union in 1957. Some of the synonyms are man-made satellites, space probes, spacecraft, and artificial space objects. These terms refer to any object that has been launched into space by humans, either for scientific research, military purposes, or satellite communications. These devices are designed to maneuver in outer space, orbit planets, moons, or asteroids, and capture images and data that can be analyzed and used by scientists or military personnel. As space exploration and commercial space activities are increasing, the synonyms for sputniks are likely to expand further.