Cambodia stamps year 1988 Exploration of Outer Space set

Cambodia stamps year 1988 Exploration of Outer Space set

In 1988, Cambodia (then officially the People’s Republic of Kampuchea) issued a colorful and detailed set of stamps titled “Exploration of Outer Space.” This set is a favorite for “Astrophilately” collectors because it highlights the collaboration between the Soviet Union and its allied nations (Intercosmos) during the final years of the Cold War space race.

Stamp Details

• Release Date: April 24, 1988
• Total Stamps: 7 individual stamps + 1 Souvenir Sheet (M/S)
• Catalog Numbers: * Scott: #868–874 (Set), #875 (Souvenir Sheet)
  • Michel: #946–952 (Set), #953/Block 116 (Souvenir Sheet)
• Theme: The stamps feature various Soviet-era satellites, probes, and orbital stations. Many designs include futuristic backgrounds of planets like Mars or the Moon.

Subjects Featured

The set is technically focused on Communication Satellites and Orbital Stations. Specific designs include:

1. Orbital Stations: Depictions of the Mir space station or Salyut modules.
2. Satellites: Early Soviet communication satellites (like the Molniya series) in Earth orbit.
3. Planetary Probes: Illustrations of spacecraft approaching celestial bodies.

Market Value

Like the Paraguay and St. Vincent issues you’ve asked about, these were produced primarily for the collector market and remain affordable today.

Note on CTOs: Many Cambodia stamps from the 1980s were “Cancelled to Order” (CTO) at the post office with a neat, printed postmark to be sold in packets. These are less valuable than genuine “Mint” stamps with original gum.