# 1107 - 1958 3¢ International Geophysical Year
1958 3¢ International Geophysical Year
City: Chicago, Illinois
Quantity: 125,815,200
Printed by: Bureau of Engraving and Printing
Printing Method: Giori Press
Perforations: 11
Color: Black and red orange
Launch Of Explorer I
After World War II, the United States and the Soviet Union struggled to stay one step ahead of each other in space exploration. Both countries made substantial advancements during this time, but Russia was first to launch an artificial satellite, much to America’s chagrin.
In October of 1957, the Soviets sent Sputnik I into orbit around the Earth. Then the Soviets sent up a second satellite, Sputnik II, the next month. This craft carried a dog named Laika, the first animal to be sent into space.
The US quickly responded with Satellite 1958 Alpha, also known as Explorer I. Designed and built by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Explorer I was part of the US program for the International Geophysical Year 1957-58. The IGY – an international scientific effort – was planned to coincide with a solar maximum in order to assess the unusual effects of the sun on earth. The Soviet Union also launched a satellite for the event.
Click here for photos, videos and more about Explorer I and other early US satellites.
1958 3¢ International Geophysical Year
City: Chicago, Illinois
Quantity: 125,815,200
Printed by: Bureau of Engraving and Printing
Printing Method: Giori Press
Perforations: 11
Color: Black and red orange
Launch Of Explorer I
After World War II, the United States and the Soviet Union struggled to stay one step ahead of each other in space exploration. Both countries made substantial advancements during this time, but Russia was first to launch an artificial satellite, much to America’s chagrin.
In October of 1957, the Soviets sent Sputnik I into orbit around the Earth. Then the Soviets sent up a second satellite, Sputnik II, the next month. This craft carried a dog named Laika, the first animal to be sent into space.
The US quickly responded with Satellite 1958 Alpha, also known as Explorer I. Designed and built by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Explorer I was part of the US program for the International Geophysical Year 1957-58. The IGY – an international scientific effort – was planned to coincide with a solar maximum in order to assess the unusual effects of the sun on earth. The Soviet Union also launched a satellite for the event.
Click here for photos, videos and more about Explorer I and other early US satellites.