Scott No: 2245-48
Serial number: T143
Values in set: 4
Date of issue: November 15, 1989
Denomination: 42 fen
Designers: Yang Luan
Size of stamps:
Value 1,2,4: 40*27mm;
Value 3: 27*40mm
Perforation: 11
Sheet composition: 28(4*7)
Printing process: Offset
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

T143 "National Defense Construction — Rocket Soaring" special stamps were issued on November 15, 1989. The set consists of 4 stamps, printed by offset. (1)(2)(4) stamp size 40 × 27 mm, perforation gauge 11, 28 stamps per sheet (4 × 7); (3) stamp size 27 × 40 mm, perforation gauge 11, 28 stamps per sheet (7 × 4). Designed by Yang Yi and printed by the Beijing Stamp Factory.

Theme of the Set

This set takes China's strategic rockets and launch vehicles as its theme, selecting four stages in sequence according to the rocket operational process, showcasing the major achievements of China's rocket research and national defense modernization, highlighting the construction achievements of the Second Artillery Force, and reflecting China's strength in independently developing cutting-edge national defense science and technology and consolidating national defense. It is a representative stamp set on national defense science and technology from the 1980s.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Advancing

The image shows a launch vehicle on a large transport trailer, towed along by a convoy. The rocket is maneuvered and transferred between positions, featuring concealed deployment and flexible mobility, which is an important guarantee of the survivability of strategic weapons.

Testing

The image shows a rocket placed horizontally, undergoing various tests and inspections at a technical position. Before launch, a rocket must complete a large number of precision tests to ensure the reliable condition of components; this is an indispensable preparatory procedure before launch.

Launch

The image depicts the shocking moment when the rocket ignites and lifts off, with exhaust flames surging and breaking through the ground. The rocket engine ignites, and enormous thrust propels the vehicle into flight; this is the most iconic scene in the entire launch process.

Flight

In the image, the rocket flies in space with the Earth in the background, implying that the rocket can cross vast distances and also representing the simultaneous development of China's space launch technology.

Artistic Design Features

The set adopts a realistic scientific and technological painting style, with a dynamic composition that frequently uses diagonal lines to enhance the forward and upward impact. The four images are连贯, forming a complete sequence of the rocket's entire process from maneuvering, testing, and ignition to space flight. The tones are calm and weighty, highlighting the sense of power of the equipment. The images are concise and imposing, focusing on displaying the majestic momentum of modern national defense science and technology.