"The conquest of outer space became one of the brightest and most unforgivable pages of the 20th century history. The flight by Yuri Gagarin on April 12, 1961 opened a new epoch in the civilization's development," Medvedev's message read.
"The first step in outer space was made thanks to the talent of our outstanding designers and the courage of cosmonauts. And we are rightfully proud of the fact that this scientific and technical breakthrough was made precisely in our country," the message said.
Medvedev said that the development of the space and missile industry remained a strategic priority for Russia.
"Russia's economic successes and competitiveness, the development of science and the country's security directly depend on the efficiency of its [space and missile industry] work," Medvedev said.
