Launching of French Space Satellites - Satellite A-1

On November 26, 1965, France launched its first artificial satellite, designated Satellite A-1 (later renamed Astérix), aboard a Diamant A rocket from the Hammaguir launch site. Weighing approximately 42 kilograms, the capsule was equipped with radio transmitters and scientific instruments to monitor the performance of the launch vehicle and track orbital trajectory, marking a monumental achievement in early space flight.

Issued in December 1965 by the Islamic Republic of Mauritania (REPUBLIQUE ISLAMIQUE DE MAURITANIE / الجمهورية الإسلامية الموريتانية), this airmail commemorative stamp (POSTE AERIENNE / SATELLITE A-1) honors the successful orbital deployment of Satellite A-1. The design illustrates the striped spherical satellite with its extended antennas orbiting high above planet Earth against a starry cosmic background, commemorating international milestones in space technology.