DaViking, my husband, Chuck, and I found this spot two years ago. This brass ring embedded on 8th Avenue in Manitowoc, Wisconsin caused us curiosity. What happened here? Join me as I attend Sputnikfest! (September 10, 2022) This annual festival celebrates the first space craft to reenter Earth’s atmosphere, well actually, it arrived in pieces. I just had to return and witness the event in person!

Meeting locals, volunteers and the coordinator, Greg Vadney, gave me insights and plenty of smiles. I spent time with three magical daughters of Ed Halbach. He had played an integral part in the story of the Sputnik IV’s space debris. In addition, I was a contestant in the Miss. Space Debris Pageant. Please join me as I take a look behind the curtain of Sputnikfest!

Sputnik Fragment Location

Curiosity has bubbled in me for two years. I was giddy at the opportunity to witness this ‘wacky, tacky festival.’ Since our last visit, a double yellow traffic line had been painted over this site. But, what’s the full story of this brass ring?

Moonwatchers

A group of dedicated volunteers, Moonwatchers, from Milwaukee (81 miles south of Manitowoc) had been notified by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory that Sputnik IV’s orbit would be overhead on September 4, 1962. Moonwatchers had consisted of a vast array of volunteers who held interest in astronomy “from Boy Scouts to Bankers.”

Edward A. Halbach, an engineer, enjoyed his astronomical hobby as the acting Director of the Milwaukee Astrophysical Society. On the September night these men observed the sky until 9:30 pm when clouds moved into the area preventing any sightings.

Into the early hours of September 5th, Mr. Gail V. Highsmith, a Moonwatcher, diligently continued his viewing through his homemade theodolite instrument. At 4:49 am he noticed red and orange objects separate in the northwest sky. Several individuals in the rural areas confirmed witnessing ‘flaming objects pass overhead’ as well.

What Was Sputnik IV?

The Russian spacecraft had been launched in May 1960. The Russian government claimed that only a suited dummy was on board. After two weeks the space probe was suppose to return to Earth, however a thruster sent the five ton craft in the wrong direction. Twenty-eight months later, pieces of the craft re-entered Earth’s atmosphere. Glowing fragments fell over Manitowoc, Wisconsin.

Finding Sputnik On Patrol

At 5:30 am, 81 miles north, in Manitowoc, Officers Ronald Rusboldt and Marvin Bausch drove down 8th Avenue and noticed what they thought was a piece of cardboard in the middle of the street. When they drove by again at 7:00 am in the morning light, the pair could see that the item was metal and went to remove it from the road. They noticed it was hot to the touch, but managed to get it onto the grass.

What? This Is A Piece Of Sputnik IV?

Francis J. Lallansach, at the Manitowoc Police Headquarters, had read in the Milwaukee Journal that reports and observations of debris was being collected. So Lallansach asked Kenneth Gevers, a salesman, who was heading back to Milwaukee if he could deliver this space debris to Edward Halbach, Director of the Milwaukee Astrophysical Society.

The Hole Was Patched, But Manitowoc Wasn’t

This Russian fragment fragmented the town of Manitowoc. Strong feelings about embracing or ignoring this unusual finding came to light. William Wollum, one alderman, had stated, “I cannot see paying tribute to a piece of aerial garbage made in Russia.” Another felt that Manitowoc shouldn’t have anything to do with communism. Yet, many were thrilled with the prospect of the piece of Sputnik dropping into their town. It wasn’t until 2007 that Sputnikfest, a fundraiser, came to be.

Hunting For More Fragments

Mr. Walter Munn from the Meteorite Recovery Program at the Smithsonian arrived in Wisconsin to search for additional fragments. Fifteen to twenty shards were located and laid out on Edward Halbach’s kitchen table in Milwaukee.

The 5K Art Walk / Run

I had traveled from Ludington, Michigan by car ferry, The Badger, which had pulled into it’s nearby port at noon. As I walked around the block from my parking spot to 8th Avenue, a rock band’s tunes pulsed, cheers rose from the pair of officers and volunteers as runners and walkers crossed the finish line at the Sputnik debris site. The race had started at 12:00 pm so participants were just completing their fun run / walk as I arrived at Sputnikfest.

Why Sputnikfest? How Did It Start?

It wasn’t long before I spotted Greg Vadney, the Sputnikfest Spearhead. I just had to know, “How did Sputnikfest start?” I asked after introducing myself and requesting a quick interview.

“Well, the idea came from watching ‘Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?’ (TV Game Show) When they had a question about Sputnik we all thought, ‘Why not make it fun and celebrate?'” Greg explained. “I think it started 14 years ago, before my time.”

I requested a photograph, which Greg happily obliged. Then, he was off to monitor the Star Wars characters who were about to make an appearance. I followed to see the cluster of characters lining up alongside the museum.

Space Characters

Everyone had the opportunity to take some amazing pictures with their favorite spacemen. These volunteers added a flavor to the festivities.

The Kid’s Art Area

Bustling activity drew my attention to the Kid’s Art Area. I watched kids create a variety of pieces with the help of many volunteers. As a retired teacher I had to remind myself that I wasn’t part of the yellow
t-shirt brigade and just observe. Seeing art in action always makes me smile!

Mary and Becky

At another booth I met Mary who had volunteered to walk around with her cleverly made space/alien costume. Becky was running the silent auction and raffle booth for Masquers, Inc., the theater group.

Becky shared, “I was six years old when Sputnik fell here. We came as a family to see this sight.” Becky’s laugh was contagious. “We got a dog and named him Sputnik, Sputty, for short. We got a duck, too, that year.” I couldn’t help myself and asked, “What did you name the duck?” Becky giggled, “Donald. Although he up and disappeared one day.” I asked if a coyote was the culprit. “Oh, no. I think he was our supper, but my folks would never admit that!” I bought some raffle tickets for their fundraiser and headed passed the food trucks to the main tent for the Cosmic Pet Contest.

The Cosmic Pet Contest

Eight pets competed in the Cosmic Pet Contest including a bunny, Kyler, and a cat, Pumpkin, who took first prize. The runner up was Ziggy Stardog. Fritz came home with third place. All the pets were given treats from the sponsor.

The Cosmic Kids’ Contest

Next was the Cosmic Kids’ Costume Contest. I was impressed with the creativity of the costumes and each child’s back story for their character. Greg interviewed each youngster. Three judges conferred.

It would have been difficult for me to choose the top three characters as they were all unique! I believe the decision had a lot to do with the story the whipper-snappers had relayed. (I should have noted the children’s plan to have a detailed tale so I could have been better prepared for the upcoming adult costume contest.)

Edward Halbach’s Daughters

Greg took a moment to announce that Edward Halbach’s daughters had come to be a part of this 60th celebration! I needed to go over and meet them! The trio welcomed me into their story and shared artifacts as well as their unique memories of the Sputnik piece sitting on their kitchen table.

Betsy had been 8 years old and remembered her father, Edward A. Halbach pacing and rattling that this piece must be Russian because it was “in metric” (units). “He made four casts of it! He used a cement pillar form to make the mold. One is in the museum here!”

Mary, poor Mary. It had been her 12th birthday and all anyone seemed to care about was this piece of metal from space. Years later the family celebrated a “make up 12th birthday” for Mary. All’s well. From the photos that were shared I could easily surmise that this family knows how to have FUN!

Joanne was just 6, but remembered the piece on their kitchen table. She said they told her to, “go out and play, but don’t tell people.”

Together the sisters recalled the fragments being laid out on their kitchen table as their father tried to reconstruct a loose model of the spacecraft’s remnants. As these first-hand memories spilled out, creating images in my brain, a chill of goosebumps ran across my arms. How incredible to be able to hear their personal observations of history!

Remember the telescope that Edward Halbach had designed? He and his 12 member team had built it in his friend’s backyard. That telescope was later updated and moved to an observatory in the city, New Berlin. It is still in operation today!

Edward A. Halbach lived an amazing life! He continued to pursue knowledge and FUN until he passed in 2011. He was two weeks away from celebrating his 102nd birthday.

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory

The specimen had arrived in Cambridge on September 6, 1962 and was examined with diligence. Measurements were made and radiation tests revealed that the fragment had been in orbit above the Earth’s atmosphere for at least one month. Wustite and Akaganeite metals were detected which had been created by the heat and friction of re-entry. NASA and Smithsonian Institute officials confirmed that this fragment had come from the Russian satellite, Sputnik IV. A tiny sliver was shaved off the piece and kept by the Smithsonian. The original specimen was returned to the Soviets after Edward Halbach made four replicas.

The Alien Drop!

Back at Sputnikfest, the Alien Drop was about to begin. Rhythmic beeping droned as the fire department’s ladder truck was backed up adjacent to the Sputnik landing site. Numbered tickets could be purchased for $5.00 each which corresponded to numbered aliens. This fundraiser supports the programing at the Rahr-West Art Museum.

The Halbach sisters were nearby and we chatted as we watched the firetruck get into position. We retrieved our tickets from our purses and held them with hope. It was precious to be part of their excitement!

Following the crowd’s countdown, a firefighter dumped the bucket of rubber aliens over the brass ring. The alien closest to the center wins the 50/50 raffle.

After Greg announced the winner, number 118, the children were allowed to collect the toy aliens. One sweet girl willingly gave Betsy, Mary and Joanne each an alien from her collection. “I have one more I could give, ’cause I want to keep one of each color.” She announced to no one in particular. “I would love to have one if you’re willing.” I questioned with my eyebrows. She handed me the green guy pictured above. THIS was a wonderful memento! I thanked the young lady as she skipped off with her Mom toward the food vendors.

Miss Space Debris 2022 Pageant

As the sun crawled across the sky creatures emerged toward the main stage for the Miss. Space Debris contest. I had decided to bring a costume and enter the pageant. I had made a quick change at my car. Betsy, Mary and Joanne willingly agreed to take some photos of me as I joined the lineup of contestants.

I’d been the first to register, so I was the first one ‘interviewed.’ I should have tuned into the kids’ creativity and had a dramatic story prepared, but alas, I didn’t. When asked my alter ego’s name, I gave “Poppins.” Then when Greg asked where I’d come from, my answer was less than dazzling. I did ask for a round of applause for the volunteers. Then, another rousing cheer for our dedicated coordinator, Greg. He pointed out, “Shouldn’t you, ah, ask for a hand for the judges? That would be a really good move.” He smirked. I agreed. I was relieved when my turn was over!

The other contestants were amazing! One lady wore a t-shirt, “Perfect Earth Specimen.” (pictured bottom left) She carried an umbrella ‘spaceship’ and told how she’d been abducted. The gentleman (center) spoke in a robot reporter voice and told an intricate tale. He earned first place!

When the competition ended a 90’s band played into the evening. (top left) One of the judges posed for a selfie with me.

Sputnikfest Is A Must-See Event!

What an experience! I was so impressed with the creative residents who came out for Sputnikfest and the Rahr-West Art Museum’s dedicated volunteers. It warmed my heart to see how the arts are valued in the Manitowoc community! Plus, I was able to hear first-hand history from Betsy, Mary and Joanne as well as Becky at the Masque, Inc. booth. Sputnikfest is a must-see event!

Darlene Menard’s Letter

Dear Sir,
I read your article in the Duluth News Tribune which said to write if you saw “Unidentified Flying Objects.” I am 11 yrs. old and peddle the Duluth News Tribune. As I was delivering the papers I happened to look up. At first I didn’t know what it was. This is it’s description. It looked like miniature rockets flying in the air. They were orangish yellow in color. The ones in the lead were the brightest. The ones in the back were dim and soon disappeared. As they moved they made a streak behind them which quickly disappeared. I saw the, “Unidentified Flying Objects” at about 3:40. There were 20 or more objects.
Sincerely Yours,
Darlene Menard
Keewetin, Minn.

Resources:

Rahr -West Museum, Manitowoc, WI 920-686-3090

Rarh West Museum – About Sputnik

Edward A. Halbach article

“Death of Sputnik” Civil Service Journal 1963 article

Sputnickfest Facebook Page

NASA “Space to Ground” reports