Early in the 1960s Masudaya hit on a winning formula: a compact flat-based rocket that could roll around the table giving the impression that it was about to fall off at any moment. There are at least seven space toys in this range, with a few associated items. The basic form is a tapering wedge shaped vehicle with a large domed cockpit at the front and a set of fins at the back. A pivot in the top permits an object to spin around. It can be either a cadet on the end of a long wire, a large plastic antenna or a cadet on a periscope. (Cadet meaning a baby spaceman). Flashing lights and attractive litho detailing complete the picture.

 The base is fitted with a very elegant non fall action controlled by a pivoted bar. It is far superior to the clumsy arm that sticks out of many similar toys. As the vehicle reaches the edge of a table one side of the arm drops and he motor abruptly turns the rocket sideways. Don't trust it, though. You have to dance around to make sure it doesn't drop!

 The body pressing also found its way into the Space Giant station where it forms the central body section. there's a friction version with a scaled down body. The idea lasted well and you can find many hard plastic pieces that are direct descendants. For the most part these are not rare toys, though the pricing ranges from modest to outrageous. In England these are frequently found in mint boxed condition though, like everything, the supply is reducing.

Bright silver litho and flashing lights are the main feature of this piece. The silver has a dreadful habit of turning black and this seriously affects its value. 

Finally there are two pieces that are variations on the theme. These saucers clearly reveal traces of the wedge-shaped body and the circling cadet: