Space Exploration
Mariner 2 Flies By Venus
On December 14, 1962, Mariner 2 became the first spacecraft to fly by Venus. Mariner 2 sent back a wealth of data about the planet, revealing many facts unknown up to that point.
Largest U.S. Postage Stamp
On December 10, 1997, the USPS issued its largest postage stamp, honoring the Mars Pathfinder. The stamp measures three inches by 1.5 inches and has special “USA” perforations.
Voyager 1 Approaches Saturn
On November 12, 1980, the Voyager 1 space probe made its closest approach to Saturn. The probe is still traveling today and is estimated to be about 15 billion miles from Earth.
Accomplishments in Space Issue
On September 29, 1967, the US Post Office issued its first attached pair of stamps to have a continuous design. Known as the “Space Twins,” the commemorated the 9th anniversary of NASA
NASA Unveils Enterprise
On September 17, 1976, America’s first space shuttle, the Enterprise, made its debut public appearance.
“We choose to go to the Moon” Speech
On September 12, 1962, President John F. Kennedy delivered one of his most famous and stirring speeches, to generate support for the Apollo program.
First U.S. Express Mail Stamp
On August 12, 1983, the USPS issued its first Express mail stamp, though the service, and those like it, had been available for several years.
Astronauts Take Lunar Rover for First Drive on the Moon
On July 31, 1971, US Astronauts David Scott and James Irwin became the first humans to drive on the Moon. Their Apollo 15 mission was the first of three in which the lunar rovers were driven on the Moon’s surface.
Skylab Returns to Earth
On July 11, 1979, Skylab, the first manned US space laboratory, returned to Earth after six years in space. The success of the Skylab project encouraged the continued inclusion of humans in space study.