Nov 7 1968
From The Space Library
NASA Nike-Apache sounding rocket launched from NASA Wallops Station carried GSFC payload to 64.4-mi (103.6-km) altitude to determine absolute value of positive ion concentration in D and E regions of ionosphere. Quadrupole mass spectrometer for measuring relative abundance of positive ions malfunctioned and, consequently, launch of two supporting rockets was postponed. Vehicle performance and trajectory were good and experimental related events functioned well and on time. (NASA Rpt SRL)
NASA Nike-Apache sounding rocket launched from Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station carried Physical Research Laboratory experiment to 93.2-mi (150-km) altitude to measure absolute flux and energy spectrum of x-rays from sources in constellations Scorpius, Taurus, and Centaurus and time variation of x-ray fluxes from Scorpius and Centaurus sources. Experiment also would survey southern sky for undiscovered x-ray sources. Rocket and instrumentation performed satisfactorily. Good x-ray data were reported. (NASA Rpt SRL)
ARC Astrogram reported successful completion of first in series of studies by Ames Biomedical Research Branch in which primates had been restrained in chairs for 98 days to provide information on calcium metabolism and bone mineralization when normal weight load on bones was altered as in weightlessness in space. Results showed that with application of weight loads on certain bones loss of calcium in urine was within normal limits; without load, control animal's calcium loss was elevated and lasted throughout experiment. X-rays showed normal bone mineralization in vertebrae and bones of loaded pig-tailed monkey, while unloaded animal sustained mineral loss. Studies would determine methods for prevention of bone changes and improve safety and efficiency of manned space flights. (ARC Astrogram, 11/7/68, 2)
NASA released Delta launch vehicle for Nov. 8 launch of Pioneer D after completion of "corrective actions" to prevent repetition of vehicle's first flight failure Sept. 18. Delta No. 59, carrying Intelsat III-A (Intelsat III/F-1), had been destroyed shortly after liftoff when vehicle began breaking up. (NASA Release 68-195)
U.S.S.R. celebrated 51st anniversary of Bolshevist Revolution in Moscow with missile display which included no new weapons. (AP, W Star, 11/7/68, A3)
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