Mar 28 1969
From The Space Library
U.S.S.R. launched Cosmos CCLXXV into orbit with 761-km (472.9-mi) apogee, 275-km (170.9-mi) perigee, 95.1-min period, and 70.9° inclination. Satellite reentered Feb. 7, 1970. (GSFC SSR, 3/31/69; 2/7/70)
NASA Science and Technology Advisory Committee for Manned Space Flight, chaired by Dr. Charles H. Townes, published Proceedings of the Winter Study on Uses of Manned Space Flight, 1975-1985, Vol. I Proceedings: NASA program for next two decades must project state of technology for that period. Program must be balanced in use of manned and automated operations. "The benefits to the nation, both internal and international, dictate that the United States remain in the forefront of all major categories of space activities," space sciences, exploration of solar system, manned space flight capability, and economic applications of space flight. Study said it was reasonable to use 1/2% to 1% of GNP to support civilian space flight program of which major elements were: (1) aggressive automated planetary exploration program as recommended by NAS-NRC Space Science Board, with options for manned phase to follow early automated phase; (2) economic applications program as recommended by 1968 Summer Study on Space Applications by NAS; (3) continuation of lunar exploration after Apollo landing as recommended by Lunar and Planetary Missions Board of NASA; (4) vigorous program of astronomical observations in earth orbit as recommended by NASA Astronomy Missions Board; and (5) extension of manned space flight capability in earth orbit to longer duration for scientific and technological purposes. Achievement of manned low-cost transportation system deserved high priority. Study recommended use of long-duration manned space station designed to support men in weightless condition "unless unexpected biomedical problems are encountered or overwhelming engineering advantages for artificial gravity are discovered," It agreed on advisability of placing observatories and laboratories in earth orbit but noted, "Relative emphasis among these activities and the extent of manned attendance desirable in each, must be decided by appropriate studies and experiments." "To provide a focal point for structuring a manned planetary program a target date of 1982 and the Mars landing mode . are assumed here for discussion. Achievement of the operational capability in that year would require initiation of system design in about 1975." (Text)
President Nixon received report of 10-member ad hoc committee appointed Feb. 7 to review all aspects of SST program. Under Secretary of Transportation James M. Beggs, chairman, said no votes were taken by committee on recommendations to President; each member had submitted his suggestions to Transportation Secretary John A. Volpe and they were included in report. (UPI, W Post, 3/29/69, A2)
“Apollo 9 Album” article in Life Magazine
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