The U.S.S.R. 's launch of the Sputnik satellite in 1957 inspired fears that the Soviet Union's presumed technological lead would allow it to triumph in the Cold War.

苏联在1957年发射了人造卫星，使美国人担心苏联人的技术领先将使其取得冷战的胜利。

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They knew that cold overnight temperatures forecast before launch would stiffen the rubber o-rings.

NPR: Challenger: Reporting a Disaster's Cold, Hard Facts

He described the tense discussion about the cold temperatures forecast for the launch.

NPR: Challenger: Reporting a Disaster's Cold, Hard Facts