The Space Patrol card series was originally released in 1965 by Primrose Confectionery Co., Ltd. The 50-card collection was distributed in England with boxes of Space Patrol Sweet Cigarettes. Each card measures approximately 2.6 x 1.3 inches (65 x 33 mm). The series was reprinted with different back variations on cardstock and thin paper. Early printings advertise a Photo Card Album. Later printings are copyrighted by Wonderama Productions Ltd.

Space Patrol showcases early missiles, rockets, satellites, and test animals. Card #33 features a concept design for the Project Gemini spacecraft.

Card #37 depicts Laika, the Soviet space dog. Laika (Лайка, "Curly") became the first animal to orbit the Earth on November 3, 1957. Laika died from overheating after the third orbit, about 5–7 hours into the mission. The Sputnik 2 spacecraft reentered the atmosphere on April 14, 1958.

Card #49 depicts Enos, the second chimpanzee launched into space. Enos was the third hominid and the only chimpanzee to orbit the Earth. Enos completed two orbits aboard Mercury-Atlas 5 on November 29, 1961.

Candy cigarettes have been prohibited in many countries including Canada and the United Kingdom. In 1970 and 1991, unsuccessful attempts were made to ban candy cigarettes in the United States. The products remain available in similar packaging, but can not be labeled as cigarettes.