Scott No: 2020-25
Serial number: T112
Values in set: 6
Date of issue: February 1, 1987
Denomination: 124 fen
Designers: Liu Shuoren
Size of stamps: 31*52mm
Perforation: 11.5
Sheet composition: 40(10*4)
Printing process: Photogravure
Printing House: Beijing Postage Stamp Printing Works

T108 "Spaceflight" special stamps were issued on February 1, 1986. The set consists of 6 stamps, printed by photogravure, with a stamp size of 31 × 52 mm, perforation gauge 11.5, and 40 stamps per sheet. Designed by Liu Shuoren and printed by the Beijing Stamp Factory.

Theme of the Set

This set systematically reviews the landmark achievements of China's space program over thirty years, presenting in sequence six major technological milestones: artificial satellites, satellite recovery, underwater launch, rocket orbital insertion, ground tracking and control, and geostationary communications satellites. It records the three major breakthroughs in China's space technology, showcases the spaceflight path of self-reliance and independent development, and carries forward the scientific spirit of exploring the universe.

Stamp Designs and Historical Background

Music Ringing Through the Universe — Dongfanghong-1 Satellite

The image shows the Dongfanghong-1 satellite traveling through space, with a deep starry sky in the background. In 1970, Dongfanghong-1 was successfully launched, China's first artificial satellite, marking China's entry into the space age.

Return from Beyond — Recoverable Satellite

The image depicts a recoverable satellite re-entering the atmosphere and landing by parachute. Satellite recovery technology is a highly difficult space technology, marking China's mastery of spacecraft return technology.

Thunder Shaking Sea and Sky — Submarine-Launched Rocket

The image shows a rocket bursting up from beneath the sea surface, with water mist surging. The underwater launch of a rocket reflects major progress in China's sea-based launch technology.

Soaring Ten Thousand Li — Toward Geostationary Orbit

The image shows a launch vehicle igniting and lifting off from the launch tower, with flames surging, heading into space, representing the assault on geostationary orbit.

Heaven and Earth in Harmony — Ground Receiving Station

The image shows a large parabolic satellite receiving antenna standing tall, receiving signals transmitted back from space and building a hub of communication between heaven and earth.

A Bright Lamp in the Jade Universe — Geostationary Communications Satellite

The image shows a geostationary communications satellite operating in orbit, circling the Earth, enabling long-distance communication and broadcasting and allowing communication signals to cover a wider area.

Artistic Design Features

The set adopts a realistic science-fiction painting style, using deep blue space, clouds and rosy glow, and flame light to set off a grand space atmosphere. The colors are rich in layers, with a strong sense of space. The six stamps narrate coherently, completely presenting the spaceflight chain from launch and tracking and control to in-orbit application, with tremendous momentum. It is a classic of early spaceflight-themed stamps.