Launching of French Space Satellites - The Diamant rocket

The Diamant rocket was the first French expendable launch system, which made France the third spacefaring nation (after the Soviet Union and the United States) to independently launch a satellite into orbit (Astérix) in November 1965. Launched from the Hammaguir launch site in North Africa, the three-stage Diamant rocket represented a milestone in early European space exploration and aerospace technology.

Issued in December 1965 by the Islamic Republic of Mauritania (REPUBLIQUE ISLAMIQUE DE MAURITANIE / الجمهورية الإسلامية الموريتانية), this airmail commemorative stamp (POSTE AERIENNE / FUSÉE DIAMANT) marks the successful launch of the Diamant Rocket. Designed and engraved by Jean Combet (after A. Frères), the fine line-engraved illustration showcases the vertical multi-stage rocket staged against its launch gantry towers, celebrating advancements in modern space exploration.