Erik Nitsche (Swiss, 1908 - 1998) "Representation of Satellites in Orbit" Signed lower right. Original Mixed Media painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the Germany 80pf European Satellite Technology stamp issued June 20, 1986. Since the launch of Sputnik 1 by the Soviet Union in 1957, satellites have played an increasingly important role in man's ability to gather and transmit information. Although the United States and the Soviet Union have been long considered the leaders in satellite technology, other nations have begun and expanded their own satellite technology. This is particularly true in Europe. In 1980, a Franco-German agreement was reached about the development, production, and launch of two direct broadcasting satellites of which one was intended for the area of the Federal Republic of Germany (known as TV-SAT) and the other for the area of the Republic of France (known as TDF 1). With the launch of the German broadcasting satellite, and within the framework of the joint project, full attention was paid to the impressive advance made in satellite technology and the efficiency of this burgeoning European industry. Image Size: 12 x 14 in. Overall Size: 15 x 20 in. Unframed. (B09753) See More