Page 14 - Italy In Space

ELDO - Woomera EUROPA 1

Europa-1 was, developed by ELDO, (European Launcher Development Organisation). as the first
European project of a space launcher. The first stage was a British Blue Streak IRBM, the second
stage was the French Coralie, and the third stage was the German Astris; Italy provided the STV
payload, (Satellite Test Vehicle), and Holland and Belgium implemented the tracking systems.
Australia, although non-European Country, was allowed to be a member in exchange for use of the
launch facilities at Woomera, managed by UK.

August 4, 1967. Sixth test of ELDO Europa 1 rocket. For the first time it carries the Italian payload,
the STV satellite, weighing approx. one ton. The mission ends in a failure due to the 2nd stage (French
Coralie). A special triangle-shaped postmark is used to cancel the covers commemorating Europa 1
tests. Mission code (e.g. “F. 6/1”) and date are featured in the postmark.

6 Dec. 1967. Launch “F-6/2” brings in space for the second time the Italian STV satellite. Mission
failed due to the same reason as the previous one.

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