The first human to journey into space was Yuri Gagarin, a Soviet cosmonaut. He made history on April 12, 1961, when he orbited the Earth aboard the Vostok 1 spacecraft. This monumental event represented a significant achievement in the Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union. Gagarin's flight lasted approximately 108 minutes and marked a turning point in human space exploration, inspiring generations to pursue careers in science and engineering. His mission showcased the possibilities of space travel and established him as a global icon of exploration and courage.