The late 1980s marked a period of introspection for the USSR. As the space race with the United States reached its zenith, the Soviet Union found itself reflecting on its achievements and setbacks. V. Smolyak's "The Soviet Union - The Motherland of Exploration" is a poignant reminder of the USSR's pioneering spirit in space exploration. Featuring the iconic Sputnik, the world's first artificial satellite, the poster harks back to a time when the Soviet Union led the world in space achievements.

Smolyak's choice of a starry backdrop and the prominent Sputnik isn't just aesthetic; it's deeply symbolic. It serves as a reminder of the USSR's early triumphs in the space race, a time when they showcased their technological prowess to the world. While the latter years saw the USA taking the lead, especially with the moon landing, Sputnik remained a symbol of Soviet innovation and ambition.

This wasn't merely about space exploration; it was about national pride. At a time when the USSR was grappling with its position in the space race, this artwork served as a nostalgic nod, reminding the Soviet people of their early leadership and the potential for future achievements.