The International Geophysical Year (IGY), which began on July 1, 1957, involves extensive research across multiple scientific disciplines, examining the Earth’s oceans, mountains, valleys, polar regions, and tropical zones. Data collected from these diverse studies will be shared among participating nations, offering crucial information for the comprehensive reports that will conclude their research efforts.
 |
| First day cover featuring the International Geophysical Year 1957-58 stamp, signed by Dr. James Van Allen. The Van Allen radiation belts were named in his honor after he discovered them using Geiger-Müller tube instruments aboard the 1958 satellites (Explorer 1, Explorer 3, and Pioneer 3) during the International Geophysical Year. |
 |
| A rocket mail commemorating the conclusion of the International Geophysical Year on December 31, 1958. |
(Reference from
James Van Allen)
