On 12 April 1961, Yuri Gagarin followed in the footsteps of monkeys, dogs and even frogs by becoming the first human to voyage into space.

With the Cold War at its bitter height, it was a spectacular triumph for the Soviets, and a kick in the teeth to the United States, which put its first citizen into orbit less than a month later.

If the Americans were bitter at the time, it seems they’ve got over it now — in fact the anniversary of Gagarin’s voyage is now a big excuse for a global party, called Yuri’s night.

With 173 parties so far planned in 49 different countries, you shouldn’t have to go far if you want to celebrate the Soviet hero’s extraterrestrial exploits. At NASA’s party at Goddard Space Center, DJ Scientific (who apparently works as an aerospace engineer by day) will set out to prove there are no hard feelings in the NASA camp at losing this leg of the space race.

Over at NASA Ames in California, party planner Matthew Hancher says it will be “sort of a party with a science fair vibe”. If that’s not your idea of fun, the chances are you can find another party that’s more your style.

As with any good night’s clubbing, the music will be the key. But the many DJs involved will have to go some to beat this hugely inspiring video recalling Gagarin’s historic mission – complete with a frankly awesome Eurotrance soundtrack (although I’ll bet that somebody, somewhere, will give in to the pressure and play Rocket Man).