Russian Cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin became the first person in space in 1961. On 12 April his capsule, Vostok 1, completed one orbit of Earth, achieving a major milestone in the Space Race. Gagarin became an international celebrity and was awarded many medals and titles, including Hero of the Soviet Union, his nation's highest honour. Recognition for his achievements continue to this day with Yuri's Night, an international celebration held every April 12 to commemorate milestones in space exploration named in his honour.