USSR 1960 Korabl-Sputnik 2 - Belka & Strelka

Korabl-Sputnik 2, also known as Sputnik 5 in the West, was launched on August 19, 1960. On board were the dogs Belka ("Squirrel") and Strelka ("Little Arrow"), accompanied by a grey rabbit, 42 mice, 2 rats, flies and a number of plants and fungi. All passengers spent a day in space and returned to Earth on August 20, 1960. They were the first living animals to survive orbital flight.


Korabl-Sputnik 2 launch special Minsk postmark 20 Aug 1960.


Korabl-Sputnik 2 landing special Minsk postmark 20 Aug 1960.

Korabl-Sputnik 2 launch special Vilnius postmark 19 Aug 1960.


Korabl-Sputnik 2 landing special Vilnius postmark 20 Aug 1960.

Korabl-Sputnik 2 Kniga FDC release on Sep 29, 1960.

Belka & Strelka maximum card.

Belka & Strelka 50th anniversary of spaceflight.