ASTP Cologne

ASTP Cologne

This limited-edition cologne was produced in 1975 to commemorate the joint space mission undertaken by the USA and the USSR, known as the ‘Apollo-Soyuz Test Project’ (ASTP) in the USA and as ‘Experimental Programme-Apollo-Soyuz’ (EPAS) in the USSR. This joint endeavour between the two former rivals signalled the end of the Space Race and a period of reduced tensions during the Cold War. The cologne is an example of many joint projects between industries in the USA and USSR to commemorate the ASTP mission and promote collaboration.

The cologne was manufactured by Revlon, USA and Novaya Zaria Perfume Factory, USSR and was distributed to countries where Revlon had a subsidiary. The packaging was designed by Revlon and consists of a cardboard box with embossed metallic details and both English and Russian text. Inside is a blue, felt covered, plastic mould which encases the frosted glass bottle, still containing the cologne. There is also a fold out leaflet accompanying the cologne. It describes the fragrance to be, “as spirited, contemporary and exciting as the historic event that inspired it. And a beautiful way to remember it always.”

On 17 July 1975 an American Apollo spacecraft and a Soviet Soyuz spacecraft docked for the first time. Through the open hatch the Mission Commanders from each nation, Tom Stafford and Alexei Leonov, exchanged the first international handshake in space. As well as being a technical achievement, the successful mission was also a beneficial public relations exercise for both countries. The ASTP Cologne is a reflection of the public admiration such developments in space travel inspired.