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EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT 

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE COUlNClL 

WASHINGTON. D. C. 20M2 
THE WHITE HOUSE 

WASH I NGTON 

January 27, 1965 

TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES: 

I am proud to transmit -- as I know the Congress will be proud to 

receive -- this review of the significant successes of our Nation's 

aeronautics and space efforts in the calendar year of 1964. 

The advances of 1964 were gratifying and heartening omens of the 

gains and good to come from our determined national undertaking in 

exploring the frontiers of space. 

young, we began during the year past to realize its potential in our 

life on earth. 

space technology were almost commonplace around the globe -- 

warning us of gathering storms, guiding our ships at sea, assisting 

our map-makers and serving, most valuably of all, to bring the 

peoples of many nations closer together in joint peaceful endeavors. 

While this great enterprise is still 

As this report notes, practical uses of the benefits of 

Substantial strides have been made in a very brief span of time -- 

and more are to come. 

visit it or photograph it. 

well. 

and extend our national strength into the space dimension. 

We expect to explore the moon, not just 

We plan to explore and chart planets as 

We shall expand our earth laboratories into space laboratories 

The purpose of the American people -- expressed in the earliest days 

of the Space Age -- remains unchanged and unwavering. 

determined that space shall be an avenue toward peace and we both 

invite and welcome all men to join with us in this great opportunity. 

We are 

In summary form, the accompanying report depicts the contributions 

of the various departments and agencies of the Government to the 

Nation's aeronautic and space accomplishments during 1964. 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Chapter I 

Chapter I1 

Chapter 111 

Chapter IV 

Chapter V 

Chapter VI 

Chapter VI1 

Chapter VI11 

Chapter IX 

Chapter X 

Chapter XI 

Chapter XI1 

Chapter XI11 

Appendix A- 1 

Appendix A-2 

Appendix A . 3 

Appendix B 

Appendix C 

Appendix D 

Appendix E- 1 

Appendix E-2 

Appendix E-3 

Index 

U . S . Aeronautics and Space Activities .. 

National Aeronautics and Space Council . . National Aeronautics and Space 

Administration ............. 

1964 Summary ................ 

Department of Defense ........... Atomic Energy Commission ........ Department of State ............. National Science Foundation ........ Department of Commerce .......... Space Science Board ............ 

Federal Aviation Agency .......... 

United States Information Agency ...... 

Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory . . 

Federal Communications Commission ... 

U . S . Launching Record (Chart) ...... U . S . Launching Record (Table) ...... Successful U . S . Launches - 1964 ..... 

Units for Space ............. U . S . Space Launch Vehicles ........ 

Ground Terminals ............ 

Recommendations (New Obligational 

Authority) ................ 

SNAP Radioisotopic Electric Power 

Major Communications Satellite 

Historical Summary and FY I965 Budget 

Historical Summary and FY 1965 Budget 

Space Activities Budget ........... Recommendations (Expenditures) .... 

........................ 

1 

5 

9 

41 

63 

69 

77 

81 

93 

99 

103 

113 

119 

124 

125 

126 

151 

152 

154 

156 

157 

158 

159 
CHAPTER 

I 

U. S. AERONAUTICS AND 

SPACE ACTIVITIES 1964 

SUMMARY 

Nineteen sixty-four was the year the United States began to reap significant dividends 

from the seven-year effort to conquer space. Almost commonplace were satellite 

storm warnings, television and communication transmissions spanning oceans and 

continents, all-weather navigational fixes for Naval ships at sea, precise mapmaking via satellite triangulation, and U. s. space launchings providing new information valuable to science and mankind on the average of once every five days. 

Coupled with these dividends was the development of a capability which would help 

maintain freedom of space for all who would explore there. 

ment of two anti-satellite systems and over -the -horizon radar contributed security 

for the peaceful exploration of space. 

nuclear detection system added greater safeguards for compliance to the Nuclear 

Test Ban Treaty. 

The operational deployThe addition of two more satellites to the 

The United States did not keep its space competence as a closely held secret or its 

space benefits as a national monopoly. Over 60 stations throughout the world readout pictures from U. s. weather satellites aiding local foreign forecasts, and 12 

stations owned by other countries have been, or are being built to receive television 

and communication transmissions from U. S. communications satellites. As part 

of the U. S. program to assist other nations in placing satellites into orbit, the 

United Kingdom's ARLEL II was launched, and the U. S. assisted Italy in its successful effort to become the third nation to build and launch a satellite: SAN MARGO. 

Major accomplishments of 1964 included the photographing of the moon from a 

spacecraft, obtaining pictures 1,000 times clearer than those taken from earth 

observatories; the dispatching of a satellite on a picture-taking mission to Mars; 

and the orbiting of a large geophysical satellite. 

1 
Though the United States accomplished much towards its goal of space leadership 

during 1964, its chief competitor did not stand still. 

orbited a three-man spacecraft, also sent a spacecraft on its way towards Mars, 

and increased the number of satellites placed into orbit over the previous year 112 

per cent. Their efforts reemphasized the Soviet intention to be the leading space 

power, and re-stressed the point that the U. S. cannot afford the luxury of 

complacency. 

The Soviet Union successfully 

To meet the Soviet competition, and to achieve the objective of placing men on the 

moon within this decade, significant milestones were reached in the development and 

testing of large rocket boosters. 

39,000 pounds -'- a weightlifting record. 

the development of large solid, hydrogen, nuclear, and electrostatic powered 

rockets. 

Three times, the large SATURN I orbited almost 

Important successes were also made in 

In many respects as outstanding as the new rocket achievements was the reliability 

attained by our time-tested boosters. 

months the Atlas launch vehicle performed 26 consecutive successful flights for a 

reliability record of 100%. 

exceeding anticipated reliability, such performance resulted in savings to the taxpayers for the missions accomplished. 

For example, over a period of eighteen 

Other boosters also showed fine reliability scores. By 

Plans were studied to formulate goals for the space program after the manned lunar 

landing. 

and manned spacecraft were given serious consideration. 

Recommendations that Mars should be studied intensely with unmanned 

The U. S. view that space should be a cooperative effort of many nations for peaceful purposes was forwarded by an international agreement with 19 countries for a 

global communications satellite system. 

participated in a series of communication satellite experiments, and agreement was 

reached on the sharing of meteorological satellite data and the establishment of a 

direct Washington-Moscow data communications link. 

The United States and the Soviet Union 

The flight testing of three military aircraft with supersonic speed capabilities 

furthered U. S. competence in the field of aeronautics. Also, design and materials 

studies leading toward the development of a commercial supersonic transport were 

conducted. 

Of particular note during 1964 were the following events and accomplishments. 

. . . RANGER VII took 4,316 TV pictures of the lunar surface, showing details with 

1,000 times the clarity of earth telescopes. 

. . . MARINER IV started on its way toward Mars on a photographic mission. 

. . . An orbiting geophysical observatory was placed into orbit to become the U. S. 's 

largest scientific satellite. 

different experiments -- a record number. 

Weighing more than 1,000 pounds, OGO I carried 20 

. . . SYNCOM 111 was launched into a "stationary" or synchronous orbit and provided 

live television coverage of the Olympic Games in Tokyo. 

2 
. . . The Department of Defense began to implement a decision to develop a military 

communications satellite system. 

satellites during the interim period. 

They plan to use existing SYNCOM and RELAY 

. . . The NIMBUS weather satellite photographed and reported cloud conditions during 

both day and night, and accurately measured temperatures of the earth's surface. 

. . . TIROS VII successfully tested the automatic picture transmission (APT) system 

which gave direct read-out of regional weather patterns to 60 stations -- government 

and private -- throughout the world. 

. . . Three SATURN I rocket boosters were launched as part of the APOLLO test 

program. Record weights of about 39,000 pounds were orbited. 

. . . The TITAN IIIA space booster was successfully launched for the first time. 

. . , Two anti-satellite systems became operational. 

. . . The existence of an over-the-horizon radar system was announced. 

. . . 

additional satellites. 

The VELA spaceborne nuclear detection project successfully orbited two 

. . . Greater coordination of effort was attained in the space and aeronautics programs. 

Among major areas of such cooperation were: the use of the XB-70 aircraft to confirm theoretical and laboratory data of the supersonic transport program; the establishment of a national pool of instrumentation ships to meet the requirements of both 

NASA and DOD; and the common use of tracking, data acquisition, communication, 

and control facilities of the GEMINI B/MOL project. 

. . . An international agreement was arrived at with 19 countries to provide the basis 

for a global communications satellite system. 

. . . The military navigational satellite system was declared operational, and is in 

use with submarines and surface ships to provide precision fixes on a world-wide, 

all weather basis. 

. . . The United States and the Soviet Union reached some degree of agreement on 

cooper ation in bioastronautics , geomagne ti cs , and meteorological research. 

. . . The F-1 and J-2 engines, destined to rocket the APOLLO spacecraft towards the 

moon, were qualified for flight. 

. . . Liquid hydrogen became a powerful fuel ready for use in operational flight after 

successful tests of CENTAUR and the SATURN 1's upper stage. 

. . . An electrostatic (ion) engine operated in space for the first time. 

. . . Gains in nuclear rocket propulsion were achieved when two KIWI reactors and 

one Nuclear Engine for Rocket Vehicle Application (NERVA) were tested at full 

power conditions. 

3 
. . . Two models of the APOLLO spacecraft were placed into orbit for test purposes. 

. . . A 156 inch diameter segmented solid rocket motor was successfully static test 

fired, demonstrating the feasibility of constructing segmented motors of this size 

and weight. 

. . . The XB-70 and the FlllA passed their initial flight test@. 

. . . The existence of an advanced interceptor system, the YF-l2A, was announced. 

. . . During its second year of activity, the Communications Satellite Corporation 

conducted technical studies, scheduled the launch of its first satellite (EARLY BIRD), 

issued stock to the public and the carriers, elected a board of directors, and signed 

an international agreement to act as manager of the initial global communications 

satellite system. 

. . . The laser beam was successfully harnessed and used to track a satellite in orbit. 

. . . The United States launched ARIEL 11 for the United Kingdom, and assisted Italy 

in its successful effort to become the third space-launching country with the orbiting 

of SAN MARCO. 

. . . The EXPLORER family of diversified small scientific satellites increased more 

than 25 per cent in 1964. 

. . . Data from several NASA Interplanetary Monitoring Probes revealed a new picture 

of our magnetosphere with supersonic winds of positively charged particles from the 

sun creating shock waves upstream from the earth's magnetic field and a long tail of 

the field downstream. 

. . . Several successful flights of the ASSET winged reentry test vehicle were conducted 

at near orbital velocities to test radiative materials and structural concepts. 

. . . The experimental NASA-DOD hypersonic rocket plane, X-15, entered its fifth 

year of powered flight and made its 121st successful flight to the edge of space. 

. . . Also launched were the RELAY 11 and ECHO 11 for communications purposes, as 

well as Project FIRE for test heating of a spacecraft returning to the Earth's atmosphere from outer space. 

. . . The U. S. placed about 73 payloads in earth and solar orbits. 

4 
NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND 

SPACE COUNCIL 

CHAPTER 

I1 

Nineteen hundred and sixty-four was a year of steady progress toward this Nation's 

objective of attaining and maintaining a front-ranking position in the exploration 

and utilization of space for the benefit of mankind. Among this year's many aerospace accomplishments were: threk? successful flights of the million and a half 

pound thrust SATURN I rocket; two launches of APOLLO model spacecraft into orbit; 

an orbital test of a GEMINI model spacecraft; significant advances in the ROVER 

nuclear rocket reactor program with five successful tests; the world's first close-up 

photographs of the moon's surface by RANGER VII; global night-time cloud pictures 

by NIMBUS I; orbiting of the first geophysical observatory; launching of SYNCOM I11 

into a fixed position over the Pacific and providing space communications links between the Far East and the United States; continued progress in the X-15 experimental flights project; and attaining a major degree of success in improving our 

national security through the use of orbiting spacecraft. 

During the year, the United States was successful in placing about 69 satellite payloads into earth orbit, raising the Nation's total from the beginning of the Space Age 

to approximately 248. Four payloads were sent to escape, raising the Nation's total 

to 10. In addition, with the assistance and cooperation of the United States, Italians 

constructed and launched a satellite from Wallops Island. This was numerically the 

most successful year for our space activity, and that is a source of encouragement. 

However, it should be noted that the year was by far the most active one in space for 

the Soviets, as they more than doubled the number of payloads orbited as compared 

with 1963. 

the most significant space features of the year 1964. 

multi-manned spacecraft, but they accelerated their entire space program. 

In fact, the relative acceleration of the Soviet space program was one of 

Not only did they orbit the first 

Although only the United States and the Soviet Union were officially committed to 

carry out ambitious space missions around the earth, to the moon or the planets, it 

is becoming apparent that these great powers will not be able to maintain for long a 

monopoly on the techniques of space travel. Comprehensive knowledge of space operations has become more and more widespread, and it can be anticipated that 

satellite and escape payload launches will be made by other nations. 

toward space mastery, the U. S. goal is to become the leading spacefaring nation and 

in so doing rededicate its efforts to improving and maintaining the peace. 

this premise that the National Aeronautics and Space Council has been consistently 

guided. 

In this march 

It is by 

The space effort is the focal point of diverse efforts in many technical areas essential to national excellence. In no small measure it has been a catalyst and a stimulus to education at all levels, especially in science and engineering. 

goals and standards have already been raised substantially as a result of the challenges of space. While the value of the educational benefits cannot be given a definite 

price tag, in the long run the realizations from this feature alone may exceed the 

Educational 

5 
total cost of the space effort. 

Combining as it does the best talents in management, in engineering, and in science 

with the most modern facilities, the end result is the production of progress in education, research and development, productivity, employment, and the improvement 

of international relations. 

Budgetary aspects of the space program received detailed critical review both within 

the Executive Branch and by the Congress. 

Government favored funding levels which represented continued support for a progressive space effort, even though the desired budgetary totals varied somewhat. 

Significantly, both branches of the 

In the discharge of its responsibilities, the Council directly, and through its staff, 

engaged in a broad range of policy and coordinating activities. Among these were: 

a. 

b. 

C. 

d. 

e. 

f. 

gh. 

1. 

j. 

k. 

supervised the preparation of the President's Annual Report to the 

Congress on Aeronautics and Space Activities for 1964. 

submitted frequent reports to the President on significant space activities. 

increased the public understanding of the national space program through 

speeches, articles, public appearances, and interviews. 

participated in the analysis and development of the FY 1966 budgets 

for aerospace. 

reviewed the coordination of the national geodetic satellite program and 

of the meteorological satellite systems, the radiation hazards of manned 

interplanetary flight, and the instrumentation ship support for space 

operations. 

assisted in the formulation of communication satellite policies, including 

governmental relationships with the Communications Satellite Corporation, 

and the development of international agreements for a global ComSat 

system. 

coordinated the settling of policy issues regarding the launching of 

auxiliary nuclear-powered devices aboard spacecraft. 

made technical studies of propulsion technology, including high-energy 

upper stage air augmentation of launch vehicle and gaseous-core nuclear 

reactors . 

visited space installations, examined facilities, and discussed space 

developments and problems with managerial and technical specialists. 

engaged in numerous interagency as well as government-industry 

meetings and briefings on new developments in space technology and 

space benefits. 

participated in the decision to make facilities available for TV broadcast of the 1964 Olympics by communication satellite. 

6 
1. assisted in technical studies of cooperative arrangements for the 

location of U. S. overseas space installations. 

m. cooperated with committees of the Congress in matters affecting 

space plans and programs. 

n. aided in the development of the U.S. positions on space-related 

matters in meetings of the United Nations. 

0. maintained a current record of U.S. and Soviet space launches, 

developed comparisons between U. S. and U. S. S. R. space activities, 

and reviewed space accomplishments and potentials of other nations. 

The Space Council activity was not characterized by formal meetings during the 

year. This was due in large measure to the vacancy in the position of Chairman. 

Although the President had identified the Executive Secretary as Acting Chairman 

during this hiatus, the functioning was mostly on the basis of reports to the 

President, interagency staff contact, exchange of memoranda, informal meetings, 

and like measures. 

The year 1964 revealed a much improved degree of cooperation and coordinating 

action as between the major agencies engaged in the national space program. Not 

only was there improvement in the exchange of information between such agencies, 

but there also was a useful interagency assignment of experienced personnel. Moreover, the space program stood as a symbol of close and effective governmentindustry teamwork. It revealed effectively how vital elements of a free society could 

join together to meet major challenges and to meet them successfully. 

The impact of the national space program upon man's standard of living, national 

security, education, and accumulation of knowledge is tremendous. Outstanding is 

the impact of the program upon man's way of living in peace and freedom. In fact, 

the benefits from the national space program run the gamut from new production 

processes to new approaches to world peace. Science and technology play a great 

role, not only in influencing public policy but in making intelligent policy decisions 

possible. 

proven worth and incalculable potential. 

The U.S. space program is now firmly established as a national asset of 

Our national space program has reached such a stage of early maturity that the 

challenge is no longer whether to go into space, but rather is what should we do next 

and how soon. 

7 
NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND 

SPACE AD MlNlST RAT I ON 

CHAPTER 

I11 

INTRODUCTION 

During 1964, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration continued to make 

progress in developing the equipment and technology to help attain U. S. preeminence 

in space science and technology. 

Design, manufacture, ground, and flight test milestones achieved in the GEMINI and 

APOLLO programs reflected major technological advancements and gave evidence 

that a broad and basic operational capability was being developed for the manned 

exploration of space. 

Accomplishments in the scientific investigations of space and in satellite applications 

were likewise significant. Particularly impressive was the successful RANGER VI1 

mission, during which thousands of high-quality pictures of the moon's surface were 

transmitted back to earth. Also important were the TIROS VI11 cloud picture transmissions and the SYNCOM I11 communications relay tests. 

NASA also moved forward in its advanced research and technology programs with the 

successful testing of a life support system able to maintain five men in a sealed 

chamber for a month; ground tests of nuclear rocket reactors to propel spacecraft; 

and a space test of an electric rocket engine. 

All other programs contributed support as the Agency moved steadily toward the 

National goal of manned lunar exploration within this decade. 

MANNED SPACE FLIGHT 

In its manned space flight program, NASA made progress in both the GEMINI and 

APOLLO programs. 

hardware design, manufacture, ground testing, and flights in both projects; 

substantial progress in the construction of necessary industrial, test, and oper - 

ational support facilities across the nation; and the definition of advanced manned 

mi s sions pr ogr am re quir ement s . 

These advances included extensive progress in space vehicle 

The nation's government-industry manned space flight team reached its peak strength 

by the end of 1964, when the combined work force totaled about 300,000. 

The Manned Spacecraft Center (MSC), Houston, Tex., became operational during the 

year with the completion of twelve laboratory, administrative, and support facilities, 

permitting the move to the Clear Lake site from leased space and from Ellington Air 

Force Base. 

craft operations and checkout were placed in operation. 

construction at the Mississippi Test Facility, with the first units placed in service. 

At Cape Kennedy's Merritt Island Launch Area, facilities for spaceProgress was also made in 

9 
Progress was made in the GEMINI program to develop a general purpose two-man 

spacecraft system, in the APOLLO program to begin manned lunar exploration in 

this decade, in the planning of mission operations, and in the study and planning of 

possible advanced manned missions. 

During 1964, the U.S. carried out six successful major unmanned launchings in its 

manned space flight program--three SATURN I missions, two carrying boilerplate 

APOLLO spacecraft for unmanned orbital tests; one GEMINI orbital mission; and two 

suborbital tests of the APOLLO spacecraft. 

ful launches of manned and unmanned payloads which began in April, 1961. 

total includes three unmanned and six manned MERCURY flights, seven SATURN I 

flights, one in GEMINI, and three suborbital APOLLO tests. ) 

These extended to 20 a series of success- 

(The 

GEMINI Program 

The GEMINI program, in which the U.S. is taking the second step in manned space 

flight, reached the flight operational phase in 1964. During the year, the first flight 

test was carried out successfully and nearly all preparations were completed for the 

second, which will finally qualify the system for manned flights. 

Progress was made in the development, production, and test qualification of GEMINI 

equipment for the planned program goals of rendezvous missions and extended earth 

orbital flights of up to 14 days. The GEMINI system, built around a general purpose 

2-man spacecraft suitable for a variety of operations and experiments , will provide 

capability for maneuvering in orbit, rendezvous and docking of the spacecraft with a 

target vehicle, post-docking maneuvers of the mated vehicle, and egress of astronauts into space. 

The primary and alternate two-man crews were selected for the first two manned 

flights and were undergoing intensive training. 

first will be Virgil I. Grissom and John W. Young, with Walter M. Schirra, Jr. and 

Thomas P. Stafford as the backup crew. James A. McDivitt and Edward H. White 

were named as the flight crew for the second, with Frank Borman and James A. 

Lovell, Jr. as backup. 

Flight Commander and Pilot for the 

Progress was made in the GEMINI spacecraft and the launch vehicle, a modified 

Air Force TITAN 11, and in the target system - a modified AGENA D and ATLAS 

standard launch vehicle. 

GEMINI spacecraft No. 2 underwent checkout at the new facilities constructed in 

1964 at the Cape Kennedy Merritt Island Launch Area. GEMINI Spacecraft No. 3 

was in the final stage of systems test before delivery to Cape Kennedy for mating 

to the launch vehicle for the first 1965 manned mission. 

subsystems were subjected to intensive development, qualification, reliability, and 

systems testing to qualify them for the manned mission. 

craft were being manufactured and assembled or were undergoing spacecraft systems 

test at the manufacturer's plant. 

Test articles of the various 

Nine other GEMINI spaceAdditional parachute drops were made to evaluate the landing system, using two of 

the non-flying spacecraft. Flotation and egress tests were successfully conducted 

under actual sea conditions in Galveston Bay with test spacecraft and astronauts. 

Additional water landing impact tests were conducted to qualify the structure for all 

10 
possible landing conditions. 

NASA made significant progress in qualifying the fuel cell production hardware as a 

prime electrical power source for the spacecraft. The fuel cell will be used in place 

of batteries to meet the increased power requirements for later missions. Also, the 

agency furthered development and qualification of the spacecraft on-board propulsion 

system which maneuvers the spacecraft while in orbit. 

demonstrated its capability to meet the long periods of operation required for rendezvous missions. 

The propulsion system has 

The launch vehicle, procured for NASA by the Air Force Space Systems Division, 

was modified to comply with the safety requirements for launching a manned spacecraft. 

launch, and a third was ready for shipment to Cape Kennedy. 

being tested, assembled, or were in various stages of manufacture. 

At year's end, one vehicle had been launched, one was in final preparation for 

Other vehicles were 

The target system also was being procured through the Air Force Space Systems 

Division. The first basic AGENA D, received in early 1964, was modified to the 

GEMINI configuration and was undergoing systems tests at the manufacturer's plant. 

Flight qualification of the propulsion systems was essentially completed. 

Spacecraft water recovery equipment was developed and being produced. 

Department of Defense range tracking ships were modified to support flight control 

of the spacecraft. 

the astronauts in flying their assigned GEMINI mission. 

to academic matters, spacecraft systems test, centrifuge, pre-flight, and egress 

operations. 

Three 

Two mission simulators were completed and put into use to train 

Other training was devoted 

A Mission ControL Center for manned space flight was among the mission support 

facilities nearing completion at Houston. This MSC facility will serve as backup for 

the early GEMINI missions controlled from the Cape Kennedy Mission Control Center, 

and will be the primary center for worldwide network operations on GEMINI rendezvous missions and all APOLLO missions. 

In flight operations, planning and documentation for the first manned GEMINI flight 

was complete. 

prepositioning spacecraft recovery forces to recover the spacecraft after reentry and 

landing, should the spacecraft be forced to land in an area other than the planned 

primary target area. 

Negotiated agreements with various foreign countries were made for 

The first of two scheduled unmanned flight missions was successfully conducted in 

April. This mission demonstrated the structural integrity and compatibility of the 

spacecraft and the launch vehicle; it also validated the performance capability of the 

launch vehicle. 

The second mission, scheduled for early in 1965, will provide inflight qualification 

of the spacecraft and subsystems and will demonstrate the capability of the spacecraft 

to successfully reenter the earth's atmosphere. 

plete flight qualification of the spacecraft and the launch vehicle, setting the stage for 

the first GEMINI manned mission scheduled in the spring of 1965. 

This mission will essentially com11 
The first GEMINI manned flight is planned for three orbits of the earth, with the next 

two flights to be long duration missions. The fourth manned flight will be the first in 

which the GEMINI spacecraft will rendezvous with the AGENA target vehicle previously launched into earth orbit from Cape Kennedy by an ATLAS booster during the 

GEMINI countdown. 

will be used, one of several rendezvous techniques to be tested. 

On this rendezvous mission the on-board radar and computer 

The experiments program for GEMINI was established to obtain more data on man's 

ability to survive and perform useful work in space. A Manned Space Flight Exper - 

iments Board, established late in 1963, was formally organized in February of 1964 

to review experiments submitted by the scientific community and government agencies. 

Forty-nine experiments were selected for the GEMINI program: ten medical exper - 

iments , eighteen DOD technological experiments, nine engineering experiments, and 

twelve scientific experiments. 

the experiments were complete or in process. 

Modifications of various spacecraft to accommodate 

APOLLO Program 

During 1964, the APOLLO program also continued to make progress. Adhering to 

rigid cost, schedule, and performance commitments, the APOLLO governmentindustry team accomplished gains in each of its program elements: detailed program 

planning and definition; design and development of large launch vehicles and the 

necessary rocket engines, sophisticated spacecraft, comprehensive ground support 

equipment, and worldwide mission support facilities; and development of trained 

space flight crews and support teams. 

procedures were adopted by APOLLO management as the program approached its 

peak effort. 

Intensified program status review and control 

The overall advancement of the APOLLO program during 1964 provides a strong 

basis for confidence in successful fulfillment of all program objectives within the 

allotted time and cost while establishing U. S. pre-eminence in manned space flight. 

Spacecraft--Major milestones were reached in 1964 in development of the APOLLO 

spacecraft, which incorporates command, service, and lunar excursion modules and 

provides extensive capability for maneuvering in space. In the lunar mission, the 

command module will transport the three-man APOLLO crew on its flight to lunar 

orbit; the two-stage lunar excursion module will carry two of the crew to a lunar 

landing and return to the command module in lunar orbit; the service module will 

carry scientific instruments, the electrical power generation system, oxygen for 

the command module life support system, and the propulsion system for in-flight 

velocity corrections and return to earth. 

Early in 1964, the engineering design was frozen for the APOLLO command and 

service module configuration to be used for the APOLLO earth-orbital missions. 

Following an October review of full scale mockups, final design was in progress 

for the later configuration of the APOLLO command and service modules, incor - 

porating 80 percent of the preliminary design. 

rendezvous and docking capability for the lunar APOLLO missions. 

The later configuration will provide 

The lunar excursion module also reached near final design during 1964, and work 

progressed on the 11 LEM subsystems. 

mental controls, reaction control thrusters, rendezvous radar, and other subsystems 

A metal mockup with fuel cells, environ12 
installed was inspected in October. 

engines for lunar landing of the LEM moved forward. 

and thrust chamber spurred the development of the LEM ascent engine. 

Parallel development of two variable thrust 

Successful tests of the injector 

At year's end, manufacturing of components and subsystems was 85 percent complete 

for the spacecraft to be flown in the first unmanned mission of the APOLLO earthorbital space vehicle, scheduled for early 1966. 

all systems and equipment supporting the second earth-orbital mission was well 

under way. 

Ground testing and qualification of 

Four successful unmanned flight tests of APOLLO boilerplate spacecraft were carried 

out during the year; two were suborbital flights from White Sands Missile Range, 

New Mexico, in May and December, and two were orbital flights from Cape Kennedy 

aboard SATURN I launch vehicles. 

The APOLLO spacecraft contract was extended in 1964 to include 16 spacecraft for 

the APOLLO missions, 18 boilerplate spacecraft for developmental test, four 

engineering simulators and evaluators, and two mission simulators for crew training. 

By the end of 1964, 16 boilerplate spacecraft for ground testing had been delivered, 

and the two others were nearly complete. 

At White Sands Missile Range, the APOLLO spacecraft propulsion development test 

facilities were completed and placed in operational status. 

Module (LEM) test facilities neared completion. 

ted for APOLLO spacecraft development at Downey, California. Included were 

facilities for development, qualification testing, fabrication, operations, and checkout of the command and service modules. 

Also, the Lunar Excursion 

Facilities were essentially comple - 

Launch Vehicles--Development of the SATURN I, IB, and V series of launch vehicles 

for the APOLLO program proceeded at a rapid pace in 1964. Three successful 

flights of the complete, two-stage SATURN I launch vehicle, using a liquid hydrogenfueled second stage, gave three demonstrations of its power to boost into orbit the 

heaviest known space payload. 

The launch vehicle technology development phase of the SATURN I, first in the 

SATURN series, was essentially completed with the first two launches in 1964, or 

a total of six developmental launches instead of the ten originally scheduled. 

seven SATURN I launches have been highly successful in meeting assigned objectives. 

The seventh flight (September 18), boosting an APOLLO boilerplate into orbit, was 

in essence an operational flight since the remaining SATURN I vehicles will be used 

operationally to orbit the unmanned PEGASUS micrometeoroid-detecting spacecraft. 

All 

Many important accomplishments were registered on the 1964 flights of the SATURN I. 

A kerosene-fueled first stage with total thrust of 1. 5 million pounds was placed in 

operation. A second stage consisting of six liquid hydrogen-liquid oxygen engines 

was successfully developed. 

SATURN V launch vehicles was proved flight-worthy. 

Complex 37B at Cape Kennedy, was placed in operation. 

the ability to place up to 22,500 pounds in earth orbit was added to the family of 

operational U. S. vehicles. 

The guidance system to be used in the SATURN IB and 

A new launch facility, 

And a launch vehicle with 

13 
While SATURN I was completing the first step in the SATURN launch vehicle development, preparation advanced steadily for flight tests of the two-stage SATURN IB. 

Early in the year , specifications were defined for the more powerful SATURN IB, 

with an 8-engine first stage generating thrust of 1.6 million pounds, and a new 

single-engine liquid hydrogen-liquid oxygen second stage. The IB has a payload 

capacity of 35,000 pounds; it will provide the launch power for APOLLO's earth 

orbital missions. 

Manufacturing of both the SATURN IB stages began in 1964. 

structural testing was 95 percent complete on the first stage and 80 percent complete 

on the second stage. 

By the end of the year, 

Initial design was completed in May for the three stage SATURN V launch vehicle, 

which will weigh six million pounds at launch. 

in its five-engine kerosene-fueled first stage, the SATURN V will provide the power 

to launch manned APOLLO lunar missions. 

place a 280,000 pound payload into earth orbit or a 95,000 pound payload on a lunar 

trajectory. 

ground and flight tests continued steadily through assembly and early testing. 

Generating a 7.5 million pound thrust 

It was uprated in 1964 to enable it to 

During the year, mockups were completed and the vehicle stages for 

Successful tests of the SATURN V rocket engines were completed in 1964, including 

flight rating tests of the kerosene-liquid oxygen first stage F-1 engines and the 

liquid hydrogen-liquid oxygen J-2 engines for the second and third stages. The F-1 

tests overcame a problem of combustion instability and verified that the F-1 is now 

ready for cluster firings and actual flight. 

At Santa Susana, California, a new J-2 engine test stand and the SATURN V second 

stage test firing stand became operational. At Edwards Air Force, California, three 

new F- 1 engine test stands became operational. 

equipment was installed at Canoga Park, California and production of engines was 

started. 

Sacramento, California was almost complete. One test stand became operational 

and a second was near completion. 

Engine development and production 

The test complex for the S-IVB test and development program at 

At the Michoud Plant in New Orleans, La. , where production of the SATURN IB and 

SATURN V booster stages is underway, a new engineering building was completed. 

Also, construction of the stage checkout facility was nearing completion, and 

improvements were initiated for the road system that will be used to transport 

stages to Port Michoud. 

Seal Beach, California, were substantially complete and in various stages of 

operation. 

SATURN V second stage assembly and test facilities at 

Mission Operations- -As production and ground testing activity approached peak 

levels in 1964, considerable effort was building up in preparation for APOLLO 

mission operations, which comprise space vehicle launch and flight operations, 

experiment planning, crew readiness training, flight controller training, the 

worldwide manned space flight network, the Mission Control Center , and recovery 

support. 

Planning of APOLLO recovery operations using ocean surface vessels and aircraft 

was carried out in considerable detail. Recovery requirements were published and 

liaison established with the Department of Defense. Training of NASA and 

14 
Department of Defense personnel was well under way. 

In APOLLO, mission operation was defined in detail. In the interface between the 

launch vehicle and the spacecraft, a spacecraft guidance and control backup of the 

primary launch vehicle during the early powered flight phase was established. 

APOLLO ground tracking stations were selected as the primary navigation system 

for the APOLLO lunar mission after the spacecraft achieves earth orbit. 

will be provided by the on-board navigation and guidance capability of the spacecraft 

and crew. 

determining initiation of the earth - moon flight and in execution of flight path 

corrections by the flight crew upon receipt of tracking information from the earth. 

Backup 

Use of the ground navigation system will allow greater flexibility in 

The space environment was reassessed on a continuing basis in 1964, as the 

scientific community and NASA's Office of Space Science and Applications provided 

information pertinent to the design of in-flight protection required against radiation, 

micrometeoroids, and other environmental conditions. A set of reference trajectories was completed describing conditions under which the APOLLO lunar mission 

can be carried out. 

APOLLO astronaut training was intensified. 

science and engineering, flight and parachute training, physical conditioning, zero 

gravity orientation, and training for desert and tropical survival. 

General training activities included 

Specific training for APOLLO crew participation included work with systems 

trainers, a part task trainer, an egress trainer, a centrifuge, and a mission 

simulator. 

become a training device, flew for the first time in 1964. 

dynamics in a lunar gravity environment to train the crew for LEM flight operations. 

A free flight lunar landing research vehicle, which will eventually 

It will simulate flight 

Increased emphasis was placed on scientific training, both in the classroom and in 

the field. Instruction was continued in geology, mineralogy, petrology, and other 

related subjects. 

features of the moonls surface, and to collect representative samples. 

These studies will enable the astronauts to identify meaningful 

In addition to classroom and laboratory work, the astronauts studied geological 

phenomena throughout the western U. S. , with special training in lava flows with 

the apparent roughness and topography of lunar terrain. 

Significant accomplishments were achieved during 1964 in space medicine activities 

of the manned space flight program. 

The coordination of the NASA Space Medicine and Air Force Bioastronautics 

programs was completed for Fiscal Year 1964 and 1965. 

programs and exchange of technical information at the task-scientist level was 

facilitated by the NASA liaison office at the Aerospace Medical Division, Brooks 

Air Force Base, Texas. 

Coordination of the 

NASA and the Air Force organized an ad hoc Space Medicine Advisory Group to 

consider medical problems involved in orbiting research laboratories and to 

recommend experiments for these missions. Additionally, the Agency initiated 

a contract with the Atomic Energy Commission to bring together information 

relating to radiation problems that may be encountered in manned space flight. 

15 
Experiments for the first manned APOLLO earth orbiting mission were selected 

late in 1964 by the Manned Space Flight Experiments Board. 

In October NASA began receiving applications from scientists and engineers for 

participation in a scientist-astronaut training program to be begun in 1965. 

1,000 applications were received. 

with scientific, medical, or engineering specialties, will assure maximum scientific 

benefits from lunar exploration. 

1965 in conjunction with NASA's Office of Space Science and Applications, and the 

National Academy of Sciences. 

and helicopter operation and other basic astronaut oriented subjects and skills to 

prepare them for participation in manned space flight. 

About 

This program for 10 to 20 qualified personnel 

Selection of candidates will be carried out by midThe scientist-astronauts will be trained in aircraft 

Launch Operations--Most of the approximately 88,000 acres comprising the Merritt 

Island Launch Area (MILA) at Cape Kennedy, Florida were acquired during 1964. 

The Merritt Island railroad was completed and the construction program for the 

industrial area kept pace with progress on Launch Complex 39, where APOLLO/ 

SATURN V flights will begin. 

became operational and two causeways were finished. 

Within the MILA industrial area, nine major buildings 

At the end of the year, the steel framework of the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) 

at Launch Complex 39 stood more than 400 feet high. 

will be 524 feet high and almost as wide and deep, providing assembly and checkout 

space for the 360-foot APOLLO/SATURN V space vehicle. 

When completed, this building 

One mobile launcher for Launch Complex 39 also was fabricated and erected, while 

construction of a second launcher was started. 

of the football field-size crawler -transporters for moving the assembled APOLLO 

space vehicle from the VAB to the launch pad in vertical position. 

construction were the pads, crawler -ways , related supporting buildings , and the 

mobile servicing tower. 

Work began on the on-site assembly 

Also under 

In all areas of the APOLLO program.. . spacecraft, launch vehicle, and mission 

operations, consistent progress was made in 1964 toward timely achievement of the 

key program milestones leading to accomplishment of the complex mission of lunar 

landing and safe return to earth of the APOLLO space flight crew. 

Organizational Realignments 

Late in December, NASA announced key organizational changes to meet the requirements imposed by concurrent GEMINI and APOLLO launch schedules. 

creation of a new position, Mission Operations Director, Office of Manned Space 

Flight, at NASA's Washington headquarters; and two Mission Directors reporting to 

the Mission Operations Director. 

will have overall responsibility for the mission to which they are assigned. 

Included were 

The Mission Directors, working from Washington, 

Other realignment of elements in the Manned Space Flight organization was effected 

by creation of an Operations Support Requirements Office in the Office of Mission 

Operations; transfer of the Manned Spacecraft Center's Florida Operations to the 

Kennedy Space Center; and establishment of the position of Director, Launch 

Operations . 

16 
Advanced Manned Missions 

Studies of possible advanced manned missions conducted in 1964 gave increased 

evidence of the advisability of basing plans for the immediate future on the exploitation of the capabilities being created in the APOLLO program. 

include trained people, a base of industry throughout the U.S. , versatile ground 

facilities, powerful launch vehicles, advanced spacecraft, operations know -how, and 

the ability to manage very large research and development efforts. 

These capabilities 

Studies and plans for possible advanced manned missions were carried out in 

conjunction with thorough evaluation of the state of technology. 

covered technology employed in presently approved programs, and the NASA advanced 

Research and Technology programs. 

These assessments 

To prepare for alternate APOLLO missions and other advanced missions representing future manned progress in space, effort was devoted to the investigation, analysis, 

conceptual design, and evaluation of such missions. Beyond the GEMINI and APOLLO 

programs, three broad possibilities are being examined. 

First, alternate and growth concepts will be provided as a contingency within the 

scope of these programs. 

earth orbital or lunar missions. 

The APOLLO spacecraft and system can be used for other 

Second, concepts were being examined for the logical extension of the approved 

programs, with some modification to the in-development hardware. For example, 

modification of the APOLLO spacecraft could make possible extremely long earthorbit missions. 

Finally, there were studies of the manned mission concepts which would require 

major new development efforts for their implementation. 

Studies of future mission possibilities indicated three rather broad areas: earth 

orbital operations, lunar operations, and planetary operations. In the earth orbital 

area, long duration missions would permit long term biomedical, engineering, and 

scientific research to be carried out in the space environment. They would also 

provide a test bed for the experiments and operational tests relating to future 

manned earth-orbital and deep-space missions, as well as means of using approved 

flight hardware for such purposes and maneuver and rendezvous in other modes than 

those of approved missions. 

In the area of lunar operations, beyond the basic APOLLO mission, identifiable 

activities include the following: exploration of the lunar surface in detail from lunar 

orbit or on the surface; establishment of semi-permanent and perhaps permanent 

bases and outposts for extensive observations of the universe; and the use of the 

resources of the moon, itself. And in area of planetary operations, mission analyses 

were being performed to define an overall exploration program and the early research 

and development needed to lay a basis for later systems development. 

All advanced manned space operations are dependent upon launch vehicle capabilities. 

Presently-approved launch vehicle programs provide for increasing capabilities 

over the next few years, culminating in the SATURN V vehicle. 

to provide even greater payload capability for the advanced missions by uprating the 

SATURN IB and SATURN V in a number of ways; analyses were being conducted to 

It may be possible 

17 
evaluate these possibilities. 

may be required for some of the advanced missions being considered, particularly 

the planetary ones. 

Altogether, in the areas of earth-orbital, extended lunar , and planetary missions, 

NASA moved forward considerably in 1964 in defining the available capabilities and 

the next steps to be taken to advance manned space flight beyond the scope of present 

programs. 

However, new and more powerful launch vehicle stages 

Concepts for such vehicle stages were being studied. 

SCIENTIFIC INVESTIGATIONS IN SPACE 

The past year witnessed a number of noteworthy advances in NASA's scientific 

investigations in space. Among these were: 

a. 

b. 

C. 

d. 

e. 

f. 

g* 

launching of the first Orbiting Geophysical Observatory with 

20 inte grated experiments de signed for simultaneous observations 

of space phenomena. 

orbiting of an interplanetary monitoring satellite (EXPLORER XXI), 

an ionosphere sounder (EXPLORER XX), a micrometeoroid hazard 

satellite (EXPLORER XXIV), an energetic particles and fields 

satellite (EXPLORER XXV), and a satellite to study radiation in 

the Van Allen belt (EXPLORER XXVI). 

first orbiting by NASA of two satellites with one launch vehicle 

(EXPLORERS XXIV and XXV). 

first launching by NASA of a satellite completely designed and built 

by a university (EXPLORER XXV). 

first satellite launch operation in the NASA international cooperative 

program conducted by a team of foreign nationals. 

discovery by instrumented rockets of new sources of x-rays in the 

nighttime sky and the transmission of ultraviolet spectra of Mars, 

Venus, and Jupiter. 

establishment of a National Geodetic Satellite Program and initiation 

of work on the GEOS satellite. 

Flight Programs 

Ten earth satellites were launched during 1964 in NASA's physics and astronomy 

programs ushering in an ear of greater precision in evaluating overall data on space 

phenomena, at the same time exacting more detailed knowledge of earth's space 

environment as a whole from observing scientists. 

Seven of these spacecraft were of the EXPLORER class-the twentieth EXPLORER 

orbited on August 25; EXPLORER XXI on October 3; EXPLORER XXII on October 9; 

EXPLORER XXIII on November 6; EXPLORERS XXIV and XXV both on November 21; 

and EXPLORER XXVI on December 21. 

18 
Others were the second ARIEL U. S. -U. K. geophysical satellite launched March 27; 

the first Orbiting Geophysical Observatory, weighing 5 to 10 times as much as the 

EXPLORERS, placed in orbit September 4; and the Italian SAN MARC0 satellite 

launched December 15. 

EXPLORERS--EXPLORER XX was launched primarily to study the earth's ionosphere 

using six fixed radio frequencies. 

ionosphere. 

of irregularities, the number of electrons between EXPLORER XX and the ionosphere, 

and ion composition. 

The satellite will seek out the finer details of the 

These data include the height of the ionosphere above the earth, motions 

An Interplanetary Monitoring Platform (IMP) type of satellite, EXPLORER XXI was 

designed to study radiation in space beyond the limits of the earth's magnetosphere. 

Furnishing data regarding the hazards of this radiation for astronauts, the satellite 

measures magnetic fields which it traverses, plasma which it encounters, and 

energetic electrons, ions, and cosmic rays coming to earth from space. 

EXPLORER XXII determines the electron count in the ionosphere between the satellite 

and the earth by radio transmission. 

observation of the orbital positions of satellites by taking advantage of the short wavelengths of light in a laser beam, a procedure promising greater accuracy. 

This spacecraft was also equipped to study the 

EXPLORER XXIII was launched from Wallops Island with a SCOUT launch vehicle. 

The upper stage went into orbit with instrumentation designed to investigate the 

hazards created by impacts of micrometeoroids. 

and effects. 

It reports micrometeoroid flux 

EXPLORERS XXIV and XXV were launched simultaneously with a single SCOUT 

vehicle. 

of EXPLORER XIX on atmospheric drag and density through orbital tracking. 

EXPLORER XXV was designed and built by the State University of Iowa as the fourth 

INJUN spacecraft for use in the measurements of energetic particles and magnetic 

fields in space. 

EXPLORER XXIV is a twelve-foot sphere that continues the measurement 

EXPLORER XXVI was launched on December 21. 

designed to study natural and man-made radiation. 

It carried five experiments 

ARIEL 11--The second U. S. -U.K. geophysical satellite, ARIEL 11, was orbited from 

Wallops Island, Va., in March by a SCOUT launch vehicle. The spacecraft was 

developed in this country; its experiments were designed and its instruments built by 

British scientists. It investigates galactic radio noise from space, the vertical 

distribution of ozone in the upper atmosphere, and micrometeoroid flux from space. 

Orbiting Geophysical Observatory- -0GO-I (the first Orbiting Geophysical Observatory) was launched September 4. Weighing more than a 1,000 pounds, this earth 

satellite was placed in a highly elliptical orbit ranging from 175 miles to a height 

of 92,721 miles. The 20 experiments aboard were designed to take simultaneous 

readings and produce an integrated study of the earth's magnetic field, radiation in 

space about the earth, and the interaction of the two. 

While the launch of OGO-I was successful, two of the experiment booms failed to 

deploy properly and interfered with the attitude control, thus preventing the observatory from stabilizing in orbit and pointing at the earth. Despite the fact that the 

19 
satellite is spinning or tumbling in space and is therefore considered a failure, 

useful data is being received from many of the scientific experiments and the mission 

is considered to have contributed significantly to the understanding of the earth-sun 

relationships. 

SAN MARCO--The SAN MARCO satellite was designed and built by Italian scientists 

and space technologists. 

first time in the NASA international cooperative program that a NASA satellite launch 

operation was conducted by a foreign team. 

measurements of air density by an original method that makes use of two concentric 

spheres. 

Its launch by an American-trained Italian crew marks the 

The SAN MARCO satellite provides 

Sounding Rockets--In addition to EXPLORERS XX through XXVI, ARIEL 11, OGO-I, 

and SAN MARCO, NASA launched 100 sounding rockets in 1964. These rockets - 

investigated x-rays coming from outer space and the distribution of sodium in the 

atmosphere, and obtained ultra-violet spectra of Mars and Venus. They also studied 

the whitish green night airglow in the atmosphere described by U.S. astronauts, and 

examined earth's magnetic field and its interaction with solar plasmas. 

RANGERS VI and VII--On July 31 the six TV cameras of RANGER VI1 transmitted to 

earth 4,316 high-quality photographs of the moon's surface--pictures with a resolution 3,000 times greater than those ever supplied by the most powerful telescope. 

Data furnished by the spacecraft were being studied by NASA's geophysicists and 

astronomers and being made available to scientists throughout the world. 

photographs have already contributed substantially to the Nation's manned lunar 

program at the same time advancing significantly scientific knowledge in this area. 

The 

Although successfully launched on January 30, the sixth RANGER failed to take the 

planned photographs of the lunar surface. 

February 2 only 20 miles from its aiming point, supplying invaluable data to 

engineers designing spacecraft for lunar missions and providing a great deal of 

information on the gravitational fields of the earth and the moon. 

However, it impacted the moon on 

The last two RANGER flights are scheduled for early 1965. 

to obtain additional high-resolution photographs of the moon's surface at other 

locations to help pave the way for manned lunar exploration and provide further 

information to scientists. 

Their mission will be 

MARINER Mars Flyby-- MARINER IV was launched on November 28 on a flyby of 

Mars. 

successful planetary mission to Venus in 1962, although its technology is considerably advanced. The trip to Mars will take more than eight and one-half months 

during which time it will travel over 350 million miles. 

scientific measurements in the vicinity of the planet, it will also, if successful, 

take a series of TV photographs along a narrow strip of the Martian surface. 

spacecraft is currently on a trajectory that will carry it to within about 5,000 miles 

of Mars . 

This spacecraft is similar to MARINER 11, which performed the first 

In addition to performing 

The 

The MARINER III launch of November 5 failed to place the spacecraft in the proper 

trajectory when the booster rocket's second stage failed to burn long enough. 

20 
As MARINER IV goes behind Mars its radio signals will pass through the planet's 

atmosphere. 

of the transmitted signals, certain characteristics of the space environment can be 

determined. 

By studying the effect of the atmosphere on the frequency and strength 

PIONEER--A contract for the design and development of four PIONEER spacecraft 

to be used to explore interplanetary space was awarded by NASA in 1963. 

of the scientific payload with the prototype PIONEER spacecraft began in November 

1964. 

Integration 

The first flight was scheduled for launching late in 1965. 

PIONEER will measure magnetic fields, solar plasma, energetic particles , and 

cosmic dust in a 35-million mile wide belt extending along an orbital path 50-million 

miles ahead of and behind the earth. 

Planetary Studies --During the past year several possible concepts for future Mars 

missions were studied to aid in planning planetary exploration following the 1964 

MARINER flight. Flyby, orbiter, and capsule-lander missions were evaluated for 

the ATLAS-CENTAUR, TITAN 111-C, three-stage SATURN I-B, and SATURN V 

launch vehicles. These studies indicated that several of the follow-on missions 

appeared to have considerable scientific value and that missions based on the threestage SATURN I-B vehicle will ultimately be required to explore Mars thoroughly. 

Preliminary studies were also conducted of Jupiter, Mercury, comet, and asteroid 

missions to estimate mission profile , spacecraft technology, and launch vehicle 

requirements for future space science programs. 

LUNAR ORBITER--NASA signed a contract, in May, for the development of the 

Nation's first satellite of the moon-LUNAR ORBITER. 

are designed to provide high-quality pictures of considerable areas of lunar surface 

and assist in picking out landing sites for future manned and unmanned spacecraft. 

Cameras aboard the satellite 

SURVEYOR--NASA made substantial advances in 1964 in the program to soft land 

a payload on the moon. 

surface roving vehicles to be flown aboard more advanced SURVEYORS to conduct 

surveys and explore various features of particular interest to scientists. 

Studies continued on the possibility of building small lunarBioscience Programs 

Biosatellites --NASA has contracted for the design, fabrication, testing, and delivery 

of six recoverable biosatellites for launch from Cape Kennedy beginning in mid-1966. 

To be orbited by THOR-DELTA rockets for three days to a month, these biological 

satellites will be used to study the effects of radiation, weightlessness, and other 

outer space stresses on various life forms through experiments with single cells, 

insects , plants , rats , and monkeys. 

The 20 biological experiments were selected from over 185 proposed by prominent 

life scientists throughout the United States. 

fabricated and tested from conceptual through prototype stages. 

Each experiment package was designed, 

Life Support System for Spacecraft- -Scientists have developed a biological regener - 

ative life support system able to produce oxygen, food, and water from astronauts' 

waste products during extended space flights. This system uses electrolysis of 

21 
water and Hydrogenomonas (soil) bacteria. 

dioxide and urine from space explorers to provide food. 

excess water of respiration from the astronauts are used in electrolysis. 

The bacteria utilize hydrogen and carbon 

In turn, fuel cell water and 

This method requires, on a batch basis, only 10 percent of the electric power and 

10 to 20 percent of the volume and weight of the best algae (Chlorella) gas exchanger 

system. 

Optimal concentrations of oxygen, nitrogen, temperature, and other growth conditions 

were established for this life support system and a continuous cyclic culture apparatus was in operation. These bacteria will be fed to human volunteers and animals. 

Exobiology--In 1964 the National Academy of Science through its Space Science Board 

completed a study at Stanford University for NASA outlining a well defined program in 

the field of extraterrestrial biology. 

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory in another project undertook to define a minimum 

acceptable biological payload for spacecraft to land on Mars. 

developing several devices to detect life on other planets and in interplanetary space, 

this study seeks to determine what combination of these detection devices can yield 

the most data. 

Since the Agency is 

A study project was initiated to determine the feasibility of an automated biological 

experiment system as the major biological instrumentation for VOYAGER spacecraft 

to land on Mars in the early 1970s. 

of information on the biological status of a planet by using automated equipment made 

up of combined detection devices. 

These missions would gather a broad spectrum 

A scientific breakthrough was achieved in the laboratory with the synthesis of the 

life -related compound adenine --a first building block to adenosine triphosphate, the 

energy storage system in all of earth's organisms. This development also provides 

a channel through which the nucleosides can be constructed--elements which carry 

heredity from one generation to another in every living thing. 

SATELLITE APPLICATIONS PROGRAM 

Meteorolonical Svstems 

TIROS--TIROS VIII, launched in December 1963, has successfully flight tested the 

Automatic Picture Transmission (APT) system providing pictures of local cloud 

cover directly from the satellite to relatively simple inexpensive ground stations 

rather than requiring complex command and data acquisition stations. 

transmission system originally designed for NIMBUS, broadcast over 4,000 APT 

cycles in five months of operation on TIROS VIII. 

This picture 

During the summer the seventh TIROS set a new record when it passed the 66,674 

pictures taken by TIROS VI. 

meteorological satellite series has supplied about 400,000 photographs and identified 

and/or tracked 25 hurricanes and 45 typhoons as of November 30. 

Since the first TIROS was orbited in April 1960 this 

The next TIROS--built like a cartwheel with its cameras looking out through the sides 

instead of through the base --will allow earth-oriented pictures throughout the sunlit 

22 
portion of each orbit. 

Operational Satellites (TOS) which are to rpovide daily global pictures and infrared 

data for operational uses. 

This is the basic design for the Weather Bureau-funded TIROS 

NIMBUS--The first NIMBUS, a meteorological observatory in space, was launched 

on August 28. The spacecraft carried stabilization and control systems which kept 

its cameras and sensors pointed earthward at all times. 

space-oriented, pointing to the earth part of the time.) 

(TIROS satellites were 

Although its orbit was more elliptical than planned, throughout the spacecraft's 3-1 /2 

week active lifetime all sensors provided data as commanded. Cloud cover data of 

greatly improved quality were furnished by the Advanced Vidicon Camera System. 

The Automatic Picture Transmission System (APT) supplied pictures of local cloud 

cover to ground stations all over the world. In addition, a high resolution infrared 

radiometer, first flown by NIMBUS, provided the first high resolution nighttime 

cloud cover maps and measurements of temperatures from which the heights of cloud 

tops could be estimated. 

Success with the initial NIMBUS flight has also resulted in other countries building 

simple APT ground stations to receive meteorological data. 

Communications Systems Satellites 

TELSTAR--TELSTAR 11 launched on May 7, 1963, continued to operate successfully 

from its elliptical orbit, relaying TV demonstrations and performing many technical 

experiments. 

for the first time and supplied data on the Van Allen radiation belt. 

The spacecraft linked Japan and Europe via communications satellite 

RELAY--RELAY 11, orbited on January 21, provided European viewers with TV 

coverage of the Democratic and Republican National Conventions. 

When the timer failed to turn off RELAY I as planned late in 1963, the spacecraft 

became the first communications satellite to exceed its designed lifetime. 

carried televised coverage of the British elections to this country and the Olympics 

games between the U.S. and France. It is still operating. 

RELAY I 

SYNCOM--Launched August 19, SYNCOM 111, became the world's first geostationary 

satellite. (Geostationary in that it "hovers" over a point on the equator rather than 

describing a figure 8 as SYNCOM I1 does.) By October 2, the spacecraft completed 

all necessary maneuvers to reach its station over the International Date Line to 

perform experiments for the Defense Department. Enough hydrogen peroxide fuel 

remained to maintain the spacecraft on station for several times its designed lifetime of one year. 

In addition to helping to meet the communications needs of the Department of Defense, 

SYNCOM 111 relayed TV coverage of the Olympic Games from Japan to the U.S. 

quality of the pictures transmitted exceeded technical expectations. 

The 

(SYNCOM I1 and 111 will be turned over to the Defense Department early in 1965.) 

At the beginning of the 1964 SYNCOM 11 was stationed over Brazil, where it was 

placed for its experiments in 1963. On March 15, 1964, at the request of the 

23 
Defense Department, it was commanded to drift westward at a controlled rate which 

put it by August 19, at 160°E. longitude to back up the SUNCOM III launch. 

this successful move it continued its westward drift toward an eventual station over 

the Indian Ocean. 

After 

SYNCOM II has logged almost 4,000 hours for Army ground stations--more than all 

other satellites combined- -and has provided an alternate defense communications 

link to the western Pacific, the Philippines, and Viet Nam. 

ECHO--On January 25 a second, improved, and larger ECHO passive communications 

satellite was placed in orbit. Ejection and controlled inflation of the rigidized sphere 

were televised from the AGENA stage and received at Johannesburg, South Africa. 

The spacecraft was also tracked by stations of the Soviet Academy of Sciences. 

Through an international agreement tracking photographs and communications results 

were later forwarded to this country for analysis. 

On February 21, communications research began between the British Jodrell Bank 

station operating on behalf of NASA, and Zimenki Observatory, Gorki University, 

east of Moscow. U.S. efforts consisted of Air Force experiments between Rome, 

New York and Puerto Rico, and NASA-sponsored experiments between a contractor 

facility near Dallas, Tex. and a U. S. Navy station at Stump Neck, Md. 

of Ohio State University also participated in the latter. 

A facility 

Observation of the signals from ECHO 11's radio beacons indicated that it was 

spinning at about p. 6 rpm. 

should add to knowledge of the physics of space. 

The cause of this spin-up was under investigation and 

ECHO I has completed its fourth year in orbit. 

observed periodically to assess the properties of space and for some geodetic 

purposes. 

this 100-foot diameter sphere. 

further orbital investigations, geodesists have selected the ECHO I design. 

Somewhat wrinkled, it is still being 

Present orbital computations predict at least two more years of life for 

In choosing an appropriate sphere to be launched for 

LIGHT AND MEDIUM LAUNCH VEHICLES 

Launch vehicle used for NASA's unmanned missions are SCOUT, THOR-DELTA, 

THOR-AGENA, ATLAS-AGENA, and ATLAS-CENTAUR. Of these only CENTAUR 

is in the development stage. 

already developed to insure reliable and effective support for planned missions. 

However, minor improvements continue on vehicles 

SCOUT was used by NASA, the Air Force, the Navy, and the Atomic Energy 

Commission for research experiments including probe, reentry, and orbital missions 

Increased flight reliability and performance were achieved during 1964 and ten of 

the eleven missions launched by the Scout vehicles were successfully completed. 

Performance of THOR-DELTA was also significantly increased and a program 

initiated to obtain still greater performance. 

failed in an orbital attempt, but it has launched SYNCOM 111 and a scientific satellite 

since that one failure. Additional launches of meteorological, communications , and 

scientific satellites were planned. 

After 22 consecutive successes DELTA 

RANGERS VI and VII, the first Orbiting Geophysical Observatory (OCO-I), and 

MARINERS 111 and IV, were launched by NASA's ATLAS AGENA vehicle systems 

24 
during 1964. 

flawlessly. 

failed to separate from the spacecraft as planned. 

With the exception of the MARINER I11 launch, all vehicles performed 

The MARINER 111 launch was unsuccessful because the fiberglass shroud 

In addition, ECHO 11 and NIMBUS I were launched by THOR-AGENA vehicles. In 

these launches orbits vaired from the predicted but allowed successful spacecraft 

operations and completed missions. 

THOR -AGENA reliability performance. 

Improvements were incorporated to increase 

An ATLAS vehicle was successfully launched in April to study high reentry velocity 

into the earth's atmosphere (37,000 feet a second) in Project FIRE. 

Development of the ATLAS-CENTAUR continued satisfactorily. 

ment vehicle was launched on June 30 and achieved 95 percent of its planned flight 

test objectives . 

The third developThe fourth launch on December 11 was primarily successful although the attempt 

to restart the CENTAUR engine in flight failed. 

model of the SURVEYOR spacecraft into a precise orbit. 

through 1965. 

The launch vehicle placed a metal 

Development will continue 

ADVANCED RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY 

BASIC AND APPLIED RESEARCH 

During this year, NASA's Advanced Research and Technology activities continued to 

extend the store of new knowledge which serves as the basis for our airborne and 

space flight programs. 

Applied Mathematics --The aerodynamic and corresponding inertial properties of a 

wide variety of shapes possibly applicable to future air- and spacecraft were 

expressed mathematically and compiled by computer in extensive tables where 

information is available for use in the design of aircraft and spacecraft bodies. 

Fluid Physics--A newly developed ultrasonic technique was used to measure viscosity 

of monatomic gases up to 10, OOOo K (Kelvin) and was being extended to higher temperatures and to diatomic gases. 

temperatures above 10, OOOo K, particularly carbon dioxide which is of interest 

because of its indicated presence in the atmospheres of Venus and Mars and its 

potential temperature and radiation effects on space probes entering these planetary 

atmospheres. 

Chemical kinetic data on gases were obtained to 

Development continued on electromagnetic gas accelerators for aerothermodynamic 

model testing under simulated reentry heating conditions. A prototype accelerator 

produced a velocity of 20,000 feet per second and a gas density equivalent to that at 

an altitude of 45 km in the earth's atmosphere, conditions representative of the 

critical stage of orbital reentry. Methods developed for calculating high speed flow 

fields about blunt bodies included one which allows rapid and accurate calculations 

for vehicles such as the APOLLO reentry capsule even at relatively high angles of 

attack and hypervelocitie s. 

A new technique, utilizing a special paint which reliquifies in regions of high heating 

25 
rate, was developed for heat-transfer measurements on models in hypersonic test 

facilities. Used to study heat transfer near irregularities on the normally smooth 

surfaces of reentry vehicles, the technique may represent a simpler method to 

determine surface temperatures of full scale vehicles. 

Electrophysics --Irradiation of solid and liquid materials by exceptionally intense 

pulsed laser beams was found to generate coherent hypersonic sound waves of 

greater intensity and higher frequency than previously obtained. 

waves provide a new tool for probing the structure of matter and for non-destructive 

testing of materials. 

These hypersonic 

Materials--Power systems for extended space voyages of the future will utilize metal 

vapors heated above 2,0000 F in place of steam. Progress was made in preventing 

the severe corrosion of container materials by these vapors. Changes in container 

materials to compensate for the deleterious effects of minor impurities resulted in 

an alloy which withstood 2,000 hours of exposure to potassium at 2, 200° F. 

related program, NASA-developed solid lubricants prevented seizure of moving parts 

in liquid sodium at temperatures up to 1000° F. 

In a 

The continuous deformation, or creep, of metals subjected to stresses at relatively 

high temperatures restricts the use of certain metals in many applications. 

retical and experimental investigations indicated that a drastic reduction in creep 

rate could be achieved by adding a suitably distributed second phase in the metal. 

In a particular aluminum alloy, finely dispersed aluminum oxide drastically lowered 

the creep rate at 500° C and 1,000 psi stress. 

TheoThe application of very high pressures can produce advantageous changes in certain 

substances. 

characteristics at atmospheric pressure, it was demonstrated that the addition of 

sufficient indium to thallium results in the retention of the high pressure phase at 

atmospheric pressure. In the space environment, the optical properties, and hence 

the energy absorption, of metals can be affected by the bombardment of high energy 

particles. 

vehicles. 

bombardment indicate different behavior for a titanium alloy, commercially pure 

aluminum, and high purity copper. 

In investigations on methods of fostering the retention of improved 

These effects must be understood to permit optimum design of space 

Laboratory investigations of the absorption properties under hydrogen ion 

The temperature control of spacecraft can be aided by optimizing the reflectance of 

the sun's energy. For this purpose, studies were made of the scattering of light by 

pigmented coatings; it was found that a white paint coating of several layers of 

pigment particles, each layer consisting of particles larger than in the previous 

layer, will reflect a high percentage of solar radiation. 

Biotechnology and Human Research 

Life Support--A partially regnerative life support system was successfully tested for 

thirty days with five men in a sealed chamber. 

chemicals stored within the chamber and processed all forms of water for reuse by 

the inhabitants. Also, an advanced physical-chemical regenerative life support 

system was fabricated; designed to operate for up to a year, with expendables 

resupplied at 90-day intervals. Through a series of steps, it can completely reduce 

man's exhaled carbon dioxide to water and reduce water by electrolysis to hydrogen and oxygen. 

The system supplied oxygen from 

26 
Man-Machine Relations --An advanced controller which responds to voice input was 

designed for use in extra-vehicular stabilization and control systems. 

freedom of hands for performing maintenance tasks and scientific experiments 

outside the spacecraft. 

It will allow 

Electronics and Control 

Computers and Logical Devices--The feasibility of micropower logic devices was 

demonstrated, and negotiations were under way to obtain prototype devices for test 

and evaluation. 

immune to the space radiation environment. 

Research also continued in an effort to develop active devices 

Research on high capacity digital computer memory systems for use in spacecraft 

advanced with the construction and testing of a prototype of a memory unit using thin 

coatings of a magnetic alloy on fine wires , known as "plated wire. 

this type were being designed to store millions of "bits" of information in a very 

small volume. 

memory utilizing both the magnetic and mechanical properties of materials were also 

completed. 

Memory units of 

Preliminary tests of a laboratory model of an entirely different 

A research program to develop control and logical systems using certain special 

properties of gas streams was initiated. Although such systems do not appear to 

be as fast as other types , they are largely immune to shock and radiation effects 

and can operate over an extremely wide range of temperatures. 

Instrumentation--Advances were made in developing scientific instruments for 

atmospheric , ionospheric, and celestial observations, including devices for measur - 

ing density and composition of planetary atmospheres. 

simulating space environmental conditions served as the basis for designing more 

accurate instruments better adapted to extended space flight. 

initiated to develop instruments to detect extraterrestrial resources indicated by 

transient events on the lunar surface. 

and analysis of lunar phenomena such as red colored spots which were sighted in 

1963. Scientific analysis of such phenomena may indicate energy sources on the 

lunar surface which could be exploited. 

Improved methods of 

A program was 

The objective is the automatic detection 

Controls --The basic feasibility of the cryogenic gyroscope was demonstrated. 

passive attitude spacecraft control system developed at Ames Research Center was 

chosen for use in the Applications Technology Spacecraft project. The simple 

configuration of this system should improve reliability and lower spacecraft weight 

and cost. 

A 

Simulation--Recent advances in the development of refined computer analysis 

techniques for manual control experiments promised to reduce by one-third the 

time required in piloted simulation studies. 

experimenter to select from a wide range of data during the course of an experiment, 

to alter the experiment to bring out conditions of greatest interest, to detect anomalous results while still running the experiment, and to repeat conditions immediately 

to determine the nature of these anomalies. 

The techniques will permit an 

Chemical Propulsion 

Liquid Propellant Engines --Research continued on space storable engines , capable 

27 
of firing after months or years of travel into deep space and needed for such purposes 

as orbit transfer or departure, attitude control, vehicle maneuvering, midcourse 

corrections, braking into orbit , and landing. 

The RL- 10 hydrogen-oxygen engine was operated with liquid fluorine-liquid oxygen. 

Following a minimum number of modifications to engine components to assure 

compatibility with the highly energetic liquid fluorine , two complete engine systems 

were fired for a total of seven minutes. 

made to produce higher performance levels. 

were screened to develop fuel blends with cryogenic characteristics matching those 

of liquid fluorine -liquid oxygen (flox) mixtures; such compatible blends could be 

stored at the same temperatures as the flox and thereby enhance space storability 

without sacrificing engine performance. 

Further engine modifications were being 

Many mixtures of light hydrocarbons 

Development of technology for high pressure engines continued. These engines-- 

lighter, more compact, and more efficient than conventional rocket engines-- are 

highly suitable for first and second stage launch vehicle applications. 

were made of cooling, combustion instability, and high pressure pumping; thrust 

chamber elements were subjected to hot firing tests for the discrete multichamber 

and the continuous toroidal chamber approaches to advanced large engines; and 

design studies based upon test information were under way to determine the best 

combination of such features as chamber design, nozzle type, engine cycle, and 

turbo-pump arrangement. 

Investigations 

For the M-1, a 1.5 million pound thrust high performance oxygen-hydrogen engine, 

the first gas generator tests were successfully completed and thrust chamber tests 

were in progress. 

Solid Propellant Engines --NASA defined the characteristics most desirable for space 

applications, developed experimentally advances in technology for improved systems, 

broadened operational capabilities of solid systems, and improved propellant 

mechanical characteristics. For hybrid propellants, research indicated superiority 

in high performance, space storability, and variable thrust potential. The solid 

propellant technology program conducted research on materials development and 

application, engineering analysis methods, instrumentation, and nondestructive 

testing procedures for quality control. 

In the joint NASA-DOD large solid-propellant motor program, which is developing 

the technological base for motors in the 1-10 million-pound-thrust range, NASA 

completed highly successful full scale tests of 156-inch diameter motor at a thrust 

level of over a million pounds. Tests were planned for mid-1965 of engines at a 

thrust level of over 3 million pounds as the next step in demonstrating the feasibility 

of a 260-inch diameter motor. 

SPACE NUCLEAR PROPULSION 

The joint NASA - AEC Nuclear Rocket Program is a two-pronged effort. 

consists of two projects (KIWI and NERVA) aimed at developing components and 

subsystems for an experimental nuclear-rocket engine. The second is a research 

and technology effort on advanced reactor research, conceptual design and evaluation, 

mission applications and requirements, technology development and safety. 

The first 

28 
Major tests under the KIWI program for the development of a non-flight reactor were 

virtually completed during 1964. 

at power, were conducted with the B4D reactor. 

realized in these tests. 

8 minutes on August 28. 

about 2-1/2 minutes near design power. 

Nuclear Test to evaluate safety aspects of the reactor under unusual operating 

conditions. 

Two successful tests, one cold flow and the other 

All major test objectives were 

The B4E reactor was run under power for approximately 

On September 10 the reactor was restarted and operated 

Plans were made to conduct a Transient 

NERVA 

The objective of the NERVA project is to develop a flight-weight reactor. 

tests on the NRX-A1 reactor were highly successful. 

tested under power for more than 6 minutes on September 24; it was restarted and 

run for 20 minutes in additional testing on October 15, 1964. 

completely successful. 

components and engine system technology by the engine contractor. 

Cold flow 

The NRX-A2 reactor was 

These tests were also 

Major continuing effort was being devoted to non-nuclear 

The KIWI and NERVA tests demonstrated for the first time numerous attributes 

bearing on the suitability of hydrogen-cooled graphite reactors for nuclear rockets. 

Among the objectives realized in these tests were the attainment of design power, 

satisfactory control of the reactor, maintenance of structural integrity during 

powered operation, and the capability for restart. 

critical to the successful application of nuclear rockets to space flight. 

All these achievements are 

Research and Technology 

KIWI and NERVA reactor work is supplemented by work on advanced graphite and 

tungsten reactor rypes. 

water -moderated, tungsten-reactor concept were being conducted. Emphasis was 

being placed on fuel-element and materials research--the critical areas determining 

the feasibility and performance of these systems. 

on more advanced gaseous and liquid fueled reactors. 

At the Lewis Research Center studies on a thermal, 

Preliminary work was continuing 

Non-r eactor components we re being experimentally ground-te sted; these components 

are necessary for the development of advanced nuclear rocket propulsion system 

technology. 

using some KIWI subsystems; these were conducted at the Plum Brook Station of the 

Lewis Research Center. 

Typical of this effort were tests of a simulated nuclear rocket engine, 

NUCLEAR SYSTEMS AND SPACE POWER 

NASA continued its efforts to develop nuclear electric power generators; it also 

pushed ahead with its electric rocket engine and space power generation programs. 

Nuclear Electric Power Generation 

An electric1 prototype of a 50-watt isotope generator intended to augment the power 

for the 1966 Nimbus B spacecraft was built and delivered to Goddard Space Flight 

Center for integration testing. Other electrical prototypes are under test for a 

29 
variety of other missions. 

SNAP-8, under joint development by NASA and the AEC, is intended to provide 35KW 

of nuclear electrical power for use in advanced space missions. In 1964, the reactor 

accumulated over 6,000 hours of testing time, including 4,000 hours at rated power 

and temperature. 

were fabricated and performance verification tests were started. 

First generation components for the power conversion system 

The NASA advanced nuclear power program (to provide electric power ranging from 

kilowatts to megawatts) is concerned with two energy conversion concepts, the 

Rankine turbogenerator system and the thermionic direct conversion system. During 

1964, as part of the Rankine cycle work, turbine-generator and other test facilities 

were completed and put into operation; measurement of the basic thermodynamic and 

transport properties of the potassium and sodium working fluids was completed; long 

time materials tests, such as high temperature creep, fatigue strengths of alloys, 

and boiling alkali metal corrosion were started; much boiling and condensing heat 

transfer data were accumulated; hundreds of particle impact tests were performed 

to investigate space meteoroid protection methods; and testing of the first potassium 

vapor turbine in the Free World (a 200 kw design) began July 13, 1964, and was 

continuing. 

Electric .Rocket Engines 

During 1964, NASA's electric rocket engine program progressed in the research and 

technology area. 

(plasma or MHD) concepts were being evaluated to determine their performance 

capabilities and problem areas. 

Various electrothermal (arc jet and resistojet) and electromagnetic 

On July 20, an electrostatic (ion) engine of 0.006 pounds thrust was successfully 

operated in space for approximately 30 minutes during a suborbital flight. 

proved that the ion exhaust beam could be neutralized and thus permit production of 

a net thrust. 

automatic beam neutralization by electrons emitted from the facility walls. 

This test 

Tests in ground vacuum facilities had been inconclusive because of the 

Space Power Generation 

The weight of silicon solar cells was reduced to one-half that of cells used in the 

past, and packaging and deployment techniques were under development to make 

lightweight multikilowatt solar cell arrays feasible. 

Feasibility of a dry-tape battery concept was proven. 

life, high energy-to-weight ratios, and the ability to use materials that are otherwise 

chemically incompatible. 

The concept offers long shelf 

Numerous improvements were made in fuel cell technology. The feasibility of 

removing static moisture from capillary membrane hydrogen-oxygen cells was 

demonstrated, and development of multikilowatt evaluation units was initiated. 

High performance hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell electrodes were developed; when 

combined with capillary membranes , these electrodes would provide high power 

output for unit weight. A system comprised of such electrodes is attractive for 

space missions lasting one to two weeks. 

30 
AERONAUT I CS 

Aircraft Ae r odvnamic s 

Advanced supersonic configurations with efficiencies approaching those of the best 

subsonic aircraft were developed, stability and control research indicated a probable 

need for damping augmentation devices for acceptable longitudinal and lateral handling 

characteristics in supersonic flight at high altitudes, and various configurations and 

design parameters were investigated for hypersonic cruise aircraft and winged 

re cover able boosters . 

Structur a1 Studies 

Two structural models embodying design concepts applicable to the fuselage of a 

hydrogen-fueled hypersonic aircraft were being constructed for testing at 1500- 

2500°F--temperatures likely to be encountered in hypersonic flight. Equipment 

was developed for inducing angular ascillations in the test section flow of a large 

transonic wind tunnel and will be used to obtain the dynamic response of wind tunnel 

models. 

Air -Breathing Propulsion 

In research on a light-weight, high-performance propulsion system for the supersonic 

transport, NASA continued efforts to improve engine component performance, emphasizing higher turbine -inlet temperature and reduced engine weight. 

also conducting a research program to build a hydrogen-fueled ramjet engine capable 

of Mach 8 flight which will be evaluated on the X-15 airplane. 

breathing engine has potential advantages for advanced military and civilian global 

transportation systems as well as in certain launch systems. 

The agency was 

Such an advanced air 

V/STOL Aircraft 

Initial flight tests with the NC-130B boundary-layer -control airplane equipped with a 

stability augmentation system verified simulator predictions of considerably improved 

low speed turn entry and landing approach maneuvers. 

low speed stability and control characteristics of a two-propeller deflected-slipstream 

STOL model were studied in wind-tunnel tests, and simulator studies, using the 

characteristics of a similar aircraft, were conducted to determine pilot preference 

as to stability requirements. 

a tilt-wing test bed, a vectored-thrust jet airplane, and a variable-stability helicopter 

were used to aid in establishing more reliable criteria for V/STOL aircraft flying 

and handling qualities. Finally, wind-tunnel studies were conducted on models of 

the Tri-Service tilt-wing transport, the Navy tilt-duct aircraft, and the Army 

fan -in -wing and augmented -jet aircraft. 

For smaller STOL aircraft, 

Flight tests with a deflected-slipstream STOL aircraft, 

Supersonic Transport 

Aerodynamic refinements were applied to the SCAT 15 concept and verified by windtunnel tests. The modifications produced better flight characteristics at supersonic 

speed and a range increase of more than 15 percent. 

31 
X-15 Research Airplane 

The 100th flight in the X-15 program was made in January. 

for Mach 8 flight, for the study of stellar ultraviolet radiation, and for testing 

advanced air-breathing hypersonic propulsion systems; in June, it made its first 

flight following these modifications. The NASA-USAF-USN Research Airplane 

Committee decided that the X-15 aircraft should be utilized to obtain research data 

in aerodynamics, air -breathing propulsion, and structures by means of flight tests 

lasting through 1968. 

The X-15-2 was modified 

Aircraft Ooerating Problems 

Additional data collected on clear air turbulence supported earlier findings of a 

pronounced decrease in the occurrence of turbulence above 50,000 feet as compared 

with its occurrence between 20,000 and 50,000 feet. 

able to measure clear air turbulence at high altitude was being assembled, and the 

feasibility of a laser turbulence detection system and its possible evaluation in flight 

were under study. In a comprehensive NASA-FAA program on jet transport operation in severe turbulence , NASA measured turbulence characteristics and structural response, made piloted simulator studies of thunderstorm penetration and of 

the effects of cockpit vibration and instrument and control malfunction, and analyzed 

subjective reports . 

An airborne instrument package 

NASA continued theoretical and experimental investigations of sonic boom. 

of calculating the location and strength of the ground shock wave patterns of maneuvering aircraft was developed. 

favorably with experimental data from maneuvering flights. 

in the instrumentation and data analysis of the sonic boom tests conducted by the FAA. 

A method 

Predictions calculated by this method compare 

Also, NASA participated 

SPACE VEHICLE SYSTEMS 

Aerothermodynamics 

Research on the problems of stability, control, performance characteristics , base 

heating, aerodynamic heating during launch and exit, and landing and recovery of 

space vehicles contributed new information applicable to present and future space 

vehicle systems. 

A flight research program using a lightweight manned glider to simulate a liftingbody reentry vehicle was successfully completed and the subsonic flying qualities 

and landing characteristics of two heavier lifting-body gliders more representative 

of the actual weight of spacecraft were being investigated. A new testing technique 

to simulate the rocket exhaust of large launch vehicles was developed which makes 

it possible to obtain base heating information by using simple wind-tunnel models; 

significant savings in time and money resulted. 

diameter and weighing only 200 pounds, designed for recovery of spacecraft weighing 

up to 100,000 pounds, was tested. 

parachutes may significantly reduce weight and storage volume of recovery devices 

for heavy spacecraft. 

provided additional information on the radar detection (signature) of objects reenter - 

ing the earth's atmosphere. 

ment, launched from Cape Kennedy, provided a substantial number of measurements 

A Ringsail parachute 123 feet in 

Results indicated that such high strength-to-weight 

a flight experiment, conducted in cooperation with DOD, 

And the first Project FIRE reentry flight test experi32 
of radiative heating on the spacecraft as it reentered the atmosphere at a speed of 

25,834 miles per hour. 

Structures 

In research on lighter, more efficient space vehicles, analytical methods were 

developed to predict the stiffness and strength properties of composite materials. 

Application of these methods to the production of materials resulted in the development of filaments with increased strength and Gtiffness properties. Studies showed 

that use of these improved materials in reentry missions could result in substantial 

weight saving. Among structural concepts for lifting and ballistic entry vehicles 

studied were lifting entry concepts in which ablative and radiative surfaces were 

combined to achieve acceptable structural weights. 

ablator-type heat shield were flight tested on the X-15, and a SCOUT reentry heating 

experiment provided information which will aid in the evaluation of lightweight heat 

shield materials. 

Materials for a refurbishable 

In studies of advanced analytical methods for spacecraft structural design, material 

parameters which govern penetration by high speed particles were established and 

combined into scaling laws for the prediction of penetration by micrometeoroids. 

Findings that the effects of atmospheric damping of a spacecraft structure can be 

appreciable indicated that vacuum simulation rather than the normal atmospheric 

testing may be necessary during dynamic qualification tests. 

slosh studies showed that flexible baffles can give higher damping as well as weigh 

much less than rigid baffles. In efforts to predict more accurately the loads on 

space vehicles, development of a radar-balloon system for measuring details of 

atmospheric winds, a major source of flight loads acting on a space vehicle, 

progressed satisfactorily. 

Preliminary fuel 

Environmental Factors 

In research to obtain definitive data on the characteristics of meteoroids and their 

hazard to spacecraft, a Meteoroid Penetration Probe was launched during a meteoroid shower; it confirmed the existence of a momentary increase in the meteoroid 

flux. 

(launched November 6) to supplement data from the EXPLORER XVI experiment, and 

Project PEGASUS (to be launched by SATURN SA-9) to add data on the meteoroid 

hazard by counting actual penetrations in large areas of relatively thick materials. 

Other flight projects included the EXPLORER XXIII meteoroid satellite 

Laboratory and flight studies of the effects of the effects of weightlessness on liquids 

and gases in space vehicle propellant tanks were continued, the behavior of liquid 

fuels was more precisely measured to provide data on the importance of surface 

tension, and an ATLAS piggyback experiment Provided about 25 minutes of zerogravity test data on heat transfer and temperature characteristics of a cryogenic 

fuel. 

In space vacuum research, more realistic simulation and measurement techniques 

were developed for laboratory testing of space vehicle systems and materials, very 

low pressures similar to those of the lunar atmosphere were achieved, and refinements were made in ion gauges to determine vacuum more accurately. Research on 

spacecraft temperature contra1 indicated the need for better standardization of ground 

thermal testing techniques, and the National Bureau of Standards cooperated with 

33 
NASA in developing better measurement standards. 

skin-temperature control system was fabricated; it is designed to stabilize spacecraft 

temperatures under changing environmental conditions. 

Also a prototype of an automatic 

Design Criteria 

In keeping with the objective of improving flight worthiness of NASA space vehicles 

through the uniform application of design criteria formulated from the latest technology, NASA made available to industry three criteria monographs on the structural 

design of space vehicles. 

TRACKING AND DATA ACQUISITION 

The NASA tracking networks continued to provide excellent support in tracking, 

telemetry, command, and data processing for the NASA and DOD programs during 

1964. 

launch; three SATURN launches for continued development of the SATURN booster; 

two RANGER launches, including the successful RANGER VI1 to the moon; two 

planetary launches; and 31 scientific satellites. 

Key missions supported during the period included the first GEMINI unmanned 

During this period, the networks were expanded by the addition of new facilities and 

equipment to support the increased requirements of the various NASA programs. 

Manned SPace Flight Network 

The Manned Space Flight Network stations were augmented with new and more 

complex tracking, telemetry, command, processing, and communications equipment 

during this period. This equipment provides the network with the dual capability to 

support both the GEMINI spacecraft and the AGENA target vehicle. 

in northwest Australia, Carnarvon, was completed in this period; it became operational in June 1964. 

The new station 

Planning continued for station and ship requirements, and advanced electronic 

systems were being procured for the APOLLO tracking and data acquisition throughout this period. 

Satellite Tracking and Data Acquisition Network 

The Satellite Network includes the electronic Space Tracking and Data Acquisition 

Network (STADAN) and the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) optical 

camera tracking stations. 

of automatic tracking, telemetry, and command antennas at selected stations and 

with the completion of three medium-gain antenna installations with 40-foot parabolic 

dishes. Installation of the first two was completed at Quito, Ecuador, and 

Johannesburg, Saouth Africa, in May; the third was completed at Santiago, Chile, 

in July. 

This network has been steadily improved by the addition 

The second 85-foot antenna system in Alaska (the Weather Bureau Facility) became 

operational in March. 

system at Rosman, North Carolina, and ground was broken for the 85-foot Data 

Acquisition Facility at Canberra, Australia. 

Facilities currently planned to provide support for the advanced observatory-type 

satellites . 

Construction was continuing on the second 85-foot antenna 

This will complete the Data Acquisition 

34 
The capability to process data was expanded this year by the procurement of the 

Satellite Telemetry Automatic Reduction System (STARS). 

for the experimenters earlier and at lower cost per data point than was previously 

pos sible. 

This system provides data 

Deep Space Network 

The Deep Space Network consists of a control center at Pasadena, Calif., and 

85-foot antenna facilities strategically space around the world in Australia, California, South Africa, and Spain. 

This program to provide dual simultaneous planetary or lunar mission support with 

85-foot antennas at three evely space longitudes will be completed during calendar 

year 1965. 

During the year, the major flight programs supported were RANGER VI, RANGERVII, 

and the early phase of the MARINER Mars flyby missions. 

surface taken by RANGER VI1 were hailed as a major scientific accomplishment. 

Photographs of the lunar 

UNIVERSITY PROGRAMS 

NASA's Sustaining University Program is designed to increase university participation in the space effort. Through this program, the Agency awarded 43 special 

purpose research grants to 37 institutions during 1964. These grants support and 

encourage multidisciplinary research activity, help fill gaps between existing project 

efforts, stimulate new and creative approaches to research problems, and develop 

new research capabilities. 

During this year, 1071 students entered training under the predoctoral training 

program. 

in space related science and technology at 131 universities. 

aim at an annual yield of about 1,000 Ph. D. 's. ) 

This brought to almost 2,000 the number of students receiving training 

(NASA continued to 

Also, NASA moved ahead in its effort to help create adequate university research 

laboratories. Twelve more facilities grants were awarded to institutions heavily 

engaged in scientific and technical activities supporting the national space program. 

These grants will provide over 400,000 gross square feet of critically needed 

laboratory space. 

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS 

During the year, NASA's joint efforts with other countries in the peaceful uses of 

outer space brought about the launching of another international scientific satellite, 

agreements for the launching of six more cooperative satellites, wide ground-based 

support abroad for NASA missions, and an expansion of cooperative sounding rocket 

experiments and personnel exchanges. 

and activities of 68 foreign political jurisdictions. 

These programs have involved personnel 

Satellite Projects 

In December, an Italian crew successfully launched the first SAN MARC0 satellite 

on a SCOUT vehicle from Wallops Island. This was the second phase of the U.S. - 

35 
Italian SAN MARC0 project. 

operation of their towable ocean-going platform by launching sounding rockets from 

it in coastal waters off Kenya. In the third and final phase of the project, an Italian 

satellite similar to the one launched in December is to be launched directly into an 

equatorial orbit from a platform in the Indian Ocean. This is expected to take place 

in 1966 or 1967. 

Earlier in the year (March), the Italians tested the 

The second cooperative U. S. -U. K. scientific satellite (ARIEL II) was launched by 

NASA from Wallops Island in March. British scientists provided the experiments 

aboard the U. S. -built spacecraft, which has been transmitting data regularly on 

galactic radio noise, vertical distribution of ozone, and micrometeoroid flux. 

The French National Center for Space Studies (CNES) this year began fabrication of 

a satellite to be launched by NASA in late 1965 to study very low frequency radio 

wave propagation. 

instrumentation (in October 1964). 

This work followed successful sounding rocket test of the satellite's 

The European Space Research Organization (ESRO) officially came into existence 

on March 20. 

which provides for a cooperative project to build and launch two satellites in the 

1967 period. 

On July 8, ESRO signed a Memorandum of Understanding with NASA 

After two years in orbit, ALOUETTE, the Canadian-built topside sounder satellite 

launched by NASA in Septemser 1962, continued to perform well. 

this successful project, NASA and the Canadian Defence Research Board concluded 

a Memorandum of Understanding which was confirmed by an exchange of notes 

between the U.S. and Canadian Governments on May 6, 1964. Under this memorandum, Canada assumes responsibility for preparing four satellites in the NASA 

Ionospheric Research (ISIS) Program; NASA will launch these over the 1965 to 1970 

period. 

As a follow-on to 

NASA also arranged with the British National Committee on Space Research (BNCSR) 

to include two British experiments--a special ion mass spectrometer and a planar 

electron temperature probe - -on the Direct Measurement EXPLORER satellite. This 

satellite will be launched on the same booster with the first ISIS spacecraft. 

In July, experiments proposed by four foreign scientific groups were approved by 

NASA for inclusion aboard the fifth Orbiting Geophysical Observatory (OGO-E) , to 

be launched in 1967. Selected in competition with U.S. and other foreign proposals, 

the experiments include two from Great Britain, and one each from France and the 

Netherlands. 

foreign agencies. 

They will be prepared and financed by the respective cooperating 

Support for Satellite Projects 

Extensive international interest focused on the Automatic Picture Transmission 

System (APT) for direct read-out of cloud cover pictures, flown for the second time 

on NIMBUS, which was launched in August. 

received and utilized by 17 foreign civilian stations abroad. 

stations were designed and built by the countries involved, using information supplied 

by NASA. 

Pictures are known to have been 

All but two of these 

36 
NASA's Polar Ionospheric Beacon Satellite (S-66) , successfully launched in October, 

evoked the broadest international participation of any single satellite project. 

tists in 27 foreign countries plus stations in Antarctica, Greenland and Hong Kong 

participated in this project (including laser tracking experimentation by scientists 

in France and the U. K. ), with a total of 61 foreign stations making observations. 

The Goddard Space Flight Center is to collect the data obtained and make it available 

to the world scientific community. 

ScienSpain and India became the eleventh and twelfth countries to arrange with the United 

States for testing experimental communications satellites launched by NASA. 

inaugural demonstration with the Spanish ground station was conducted on May 27. 

An 

Plans for the Italian ground station are under active consideration. 

Through SYNCOM 111, positioned over the equator at the International Meridian, live 

television coverage of the 1964 Olympic games (held in Tokyo) was brought to 

audiences in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Also, tape coverage was provided more rapidly to countries of Western Europe. 

NASA and the Radio Research Station (RRS) of the U.K. Department of Scientific and 

Industrial Research arranged for continued RRS support of U. S. /Canadian ionospheric 

satellite studies. 

at a South Atlantic station. 

stations at Winkfield (U.K.), Singapore and in the South Atlantic; make the data 

acquired available to the joint NASA/Canadian Working Group; and share in the work 

of data analysis. 

NASA is to extend the loan of telemetry equipment in use by RRS 

For its part, RRS is to staff and operate the telemetry 

U. S. -Soviet Cooperation 

Between February 21 and March 9, the Soviet Academy of Sciences cooperated with 

NASA in a series of joint satellite communications tests via the U.S. passive 

reflector satellite ECHO 11. 

performance under the terms of the Bilateral Space Agreement between NASA and 

the Soviet Academy. The facilities of the Jodrell Bank Observatory in England were 

used during these experiments to transmit radio signals to the Zimenki Observatory 

of the Corky State University in the U. S. S.R. The Soviet Academy supplied data on 

its optical observations during the injection of the satellite into orbit; it also supplied 

data on the test transmissions. 

These experiments represented the first specific 

On November 5 NASA and the Academy of Sciences of the U. S. S. R. reached agreement on a Second Memorandum of Understanding to Implement the Bilateral Space 

Agreement of June 8, 1962, clearing the way for the exchange of conventional and 

satellite weather data, when available from both sides, over a special communications link between Moscow and Washington. The regular exchanges of conventional 

data began November 16. The Second Memorandum of Understanding also includes 

additional details relating to the complementary use of satellites by both countries 

in mapping the earth's magnetic field. 

Sounding Rockets 

Through both bilateral and multilateral arrangements, NASA continued to share with 

other countries costs and results of space research conducted by sounding rockets. 

37 
Over 60 rockets were launched in cooperation with Argentina, Denmark, France, 

Germany, India, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Pakistan, Sweden, and the United 

Kingdom from foreign and U. S. ranges. These rockets were used to investigate 

the ionosphere, the upper atmosphere, and geomagnetic and auroral phenomena. 

Joint projects developed by NASA to supplement the atmospheric studies of the 

International Indian Ocean Expedition resulted in coordinated launchings of meteor - 

ological rockets by India, Pakistan, and Australia. In India, cooperative projects 

with NASA led to development of the Thumba range, located on the geomagnetic 

equator. Other countries responded with contributions of equipment, and late in 

the year, Thumba became the first U.N. -sponsored range, open to all nations. 

In April, the first launching of a NASA payload on a foreign vehicle in a cooperative 

experiment took place. 

was launched from the French range in Hammaguir , Algeria, on "Dragon" sounding 

rockets supplied by the French National Center for Space Studies (CNES). 

Instrumentation prepared by the Goddard Space Flight Center 

Ormortunities for Further CooDeration 

In an information brochure titled "Opportunities for Participation in Space Flight 

Investigations, 

submit experiments for flight on NASA's manned and unmanned spacecraft. 

of the brochure went to all foreign space committees, to scientific attaches in 

Washington and in U.S. embassies abroad, and to interested scientists in the U.S. 

and abroad. 

NASA renewed invitations to the world scientific community to 

Copies 

Tracking. Network Stations 

An international agreement was concluded with Spain in January for the establishment 

and operation of an 85-foot tracking and data acquisition station west of Madrid. 

Other developments with regard to the tracking network abroad included the following: 

renewal of the agreement for the station at Kano, Nigeria; expansion and relocation 

near Tananarive of the station formerly located at Majunga in the Malagasy Republic; 

and installation of telemetry and control equipment in Australia to support Project 

SYNCOM. The NASA station in Zanzibar was withdrawn at the request of the new 

Government of Zanzibar (which came into office through the revolution in January 

1964). 

Personnel Exchanges 

In 1964, 75 scientists from 23 countries participated in the post-doctoral theoretical 

and experimental research program at NASA centers. 

NASA's International Fellowship program, 75 graduate students were enrolled at 

U. S. universities in space research studies. 

supported by their national or regional space committees. 

During the same period, under 

These students were co-sponsored and 

Some 74 technicians from three countries and ESRO were trained at NASA centers 

in payload engineering, telemetry, tracking, radar, meteorology, launch procedures, 

and range safety operations. 

or regional space committees, attended a summer institute in space physics at 

Columbia University. 

Eighteen foreign students, sponsored by their national 

And during the year about 2,900 foreign visitors --representing 

38 
scientific and technical organizations, governments, and overseas news media-- 

toured NASA Headquarters and the Agency's field installations. 

NASA ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGES 

The Electronics Research Center was established at Cambridge, Mass. 

new field installation will provide NASA with the greater competence in electronics 

research needed for the continued success in the Nation's space exploration program. 

Its activities will include basic studies and research in instrumentation; communications; data processing; navigation, guidance, and control; and it will also absorb the 

activities of NASA's North Eastern Office in Cambridge. 

This major 

A Deputy Assistant Administrator for Technology Utilization was appointed and was 

assigned full-time operating responsibility for NASA's Technology Utilization program. This program identifies data on scientific and technical innovations resulting 

from NASA's research and makes it available to industrial and other potential users. 

An Assistant Administrator for Management Development was appointed to review 

and develop recommendations concerning major management matters of specific 

interest to the Administrator. 

A NASA European Representative was appointed to handle NASA relations with 

Western European regional and national space organizations in cooperative projects 

and other joint international space activities. 

the U.S. Embassy in Paris and reports to the Assistant Administrator for International Affairs in NASA Headquarters. 

This Representative is stationed in 

PROCUREMENT 

During 1964, NASA continued its efforts to improve the management of procurement 

activities throughout the Agency. Greater use was made of incentive contracting 

than in any previous period; by the end of the year, the total value of outstanding 

incentive contracts was over $500 million. 

Procurement policies and procedures were consolidated and codified in a separate 

set of regulations known as the NASA Procurement Regulations, available for sale 

to the public. 

operating needs of the NASA field installations. 

Existing policies were reviewed, updated, and revised to meet the 

Field procurement activities at a number of installations were reviewed by a Headquarters team of specialists as part of a continuing effort to determine the effectiveness of such field operations. 

instituted by field personnel in their procurement organization and operation. 

As a result of these reviews, improvements were 

TE CHNOLOGY UTILIZATION 

During the past year, NASA placed strong emphasis on increasing the flow of 

technical information to potential users in both aerospace and non-aerospace 

industries. 

state governments, this Agency continued a program of diverse pilot projects to 

encourage the transfer of space research information on a regional basis. New 

dissemination and applications centers were established at the University of 

Pittsburgh, the North Carolina Research Triangle, and the Southeastern State 

With the cooperation and financial support of local industry and some 

39 
College (Oklahoma). 

Prior to this year, centers had already been established at Indiana University, 

Wayne State University, the University of Maryland, and the Midwest Research 

Institute. These centers , while still very young, are now dealing with several 

hundred companies. 

almost on a weekly basis. 

the largest, most sophisticated industrial corporations. 

These companies are increasing their own use of the services 

They range from the very smallest proprietorships to 

Along the same line of increasing the flow of technical information, an innovation 

this year was the issuance of one- to two-page technological bulletins called "Tech 

Briefs. 

technological developments stemming from NASA's R&D effort. 

Briefs were issued during the year and were distributed to the trade press and news 

media. 

and individuals who have requested information concerning all technology utilization 

publications. 

These were designed to acquaint industry more quickly with promising 

Over 220 Tech 

They were also issued through a special mailing list consisting of companies 

Other Federal programs were also benefiting from NASA's Technology Utilization 

program. Through the listing of selected technology utilization publications in the 

Small Business Administration's "facility inventory, It over 8,000 separate publications requests for small businessmen were filled. The Food and Drug Administration might use a NASA-developed, extremely sensitive listening device to measure 

the effect of drugs on chicken embryos. 

program is now publicizing the potentially dangerous tire hydroplaning phenomenon 

which NASA's Langley Research Center discovered. 

The Bureau of Public Roads in its safety 

40 
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE 

Continued progress was made 

CHAPTER 

IV 

INTRODUCTION 

during 1964 in military aeronautics and space 

endeavor. Three new high performance aircraft, the YF-12, XB-70, and the F-111 

were publicly revealed and promise to enhance United States capabilities. 

area of space operations, there were three systems to reach operational status. 

These were the military Navigation Satellite and two defensive Anti-Satellite Systems. 

In addition, the TITAN III space launch vehicle achieved two successful flights and 

should, in the coming years, be a most valuable and versatile member of the 

national launch vehicle family. 

of the TITAN II ICBM, successfully demonstrated its capability to perform the 

NASA two-man GEMINI mission. Two more VELA nuclear explosion detection 

satellites were injected into identical orbits from a single ATLAS AGENA launch 

vehicle. Another important milestone reached in 1964 was the decision to proceed 

with a military communications satellite system, planned for operational status in 

1966. 

In the 

The GEMINI launch vehicle, a man-rated version 

The Department of Defense involvement in space activities has grown steadily in 

scope since its earliest identification in 1955 as a $3 million effort. 

represents about 25% of tne funds spent for all Defense research and development 

programs. 

Research, Development, Test and Evaluation category. 

Today it 

It is the largest single program grouping in the Defense Department 

The military space effort is classed under two headings. 

which are directed at clear, identifiable military needs and requirements such as 

navigation, communications, space tracking and detection, anti-satellite systems 

and observation systems. About half of the Defense effort falls under this heading. 

First are those projects 

The second area of endeavor embraces the development of broad competence in 

space technology. 

be important for possible future military application. 

found the Manned Orbiting Laboratory (MOL) to determine how man can be exploited 

usefully in a military space system, the TITAN I11 space booster, gravity gradient 

stabilization systems, space electrical power supplies, bioastronautics and similar 

important res ear ch and development efforts . 

It includes vehicles, subsystems and systems concepts likely to 

It is in this grouping that is 

SPACE DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES 

Manned Orbiting Laboratorv (MOL) 

The Manned Orbiting Laboratory (MOL) is conceived as a national program to 

provide knowledge of manned space operations for 30 days duration. Emphasis will 

be given to those activities which contribute to an understanding of man's usefulness 

41 
in performing military missions. 

general merit will also be included in the flight program. 

Scientific and technological experiments of 

The MOL program was in the Pre-Program Definition Phase during 1964. 

purpose of this phase was to define the experiments to be conducted in the MOL, 

and to determine the configuration details for the MOL system. 

The 

To arrive at the best possible program of experimentation for the MOL, the 

Air Force and the Navy let contracts to a number of companies for studies, in 

addition to conducting in-house investigations. 

configuration proceeded in a similar manner. 

investigations in such areas as spacecraft and booster interface matters, environmental control subsystems, and electrical subsystems. The Manned Orbiting 

Laboratory will provide a valid and major augmentation to the national space 

effort and specifically accomplish the following objectives: 

The efforts to determine system 

Study contracts were awarded for 

a. provide a multi-purpose space laboratory for conduct of significant 

scientific, technological and bioastronautic experiments. 

b. utilize the GEMINI spacecraft for ascent and descent, the TITAN IIIC 

booster for propulsion and a laboratory module making maximum use 

of APOLLO subsystems to provide an early, minimum cost capability 

of at least 30 days manned flight. 

c. accomplish a series of progressively more sophisticated experiments 

which will contribute to the understanding of man's ability to operate 

military equipments in space, of his ability to work outside the spacecraft to assemble and service large objects such as telescopes or 

radio antennae. 

d. provide a vehicle with flexibility for a wide range of activities of 

national importance and follow-on potential for military operational 

utilization of required or additional experimentation, perhaps to include 

rendezvous and coupling. 

TITAN 111 

During the last quarter of 1964, the TITAN III Standard Space Launch System 

completed the second year of its development phase. Most of the major subsystem components successfully completed development testing and the delivery 

of the flight test vehicles was well underway. 

and Development flight test phase with the advent of the first TITAN IIIA launch 

September 1, 1964. Objectives of the maiden flight were to confirm system 

performance and design and place a dummy payload of 3, 750 pounds in a low 

altitude circular orbit. Launch was achieved within 3 seconds of scheduled 

liftoff time. 

within design specifications and all engine and staging sequences were confirmed 

by telemetry. 

malfunction in the third stage, the flight demonstrated that the launch vehicle 

would meet its performance criteria. 

The program entered the Research 

Performance of all systems through third stage ignition was well 

Although orbit was not achieved because of a pressurization system 

42 
"On December 10, 1964, the second TITAN IIIA was launched and 

all stages and systems performed as designed. 

third stage (transtage), which is designed to provide a space 

maneuvering, start and restart capability, demonstrated its agility 

by performing a planned somersault in orbit, restart and injection 

of a 3750 pound boiler-plate spacecraft into a precise 100 nautical 

mile circular orbit. 

The TITAN IIIA 

The remaining fifteen R&D vehicles will be launched at regular intervals over 

the next 18 months, with the first flight of the TITAN IIIC configuration with two 

"strap-on" five segment, 120 inch diameter solid motors scheduled for the 

second quarter of 1965. 

In early November, a successful firing of the sixth full-scale development 120 

inch diameter solid motor took place. 

the flight configuration and incorporated a new imporved nozzle design. Test 

objectives were satisfied and performance was close to that predicted. 

This was the first motor to be tested in 

Defense Communications Satellite Program 

The immediate objective of the Defense Communications Satellite Program (DCSP) 

as reoriented by the Secretary of Defense in May 1962, was to provide a worldwide communications system utilizing active, medium-altitude, random-spaced, 

satellites to be launched into polar orbits by the ATLAS-AGENA booster combination with ground stations so located as to satisfy the operational requirements 

of the Defense Communications System. 

Defense Communications Agency, the Army has responsibility for the surface 

environment comprised of fixed, transportable and shipborne terminals and the 

Air Force is responsible for the satellites and launch vehicles. 

Under the integrating direction of the 

On October 11, 1963, the Secretary of Defense requested the Communications 

Satellite Corporation to advise him as to whether satellite services could be 

provided to the Department of Defense with a stated degree of confidence. 

Subsequent negotiations between the Department of Defense and the Communications 

Satellite Corporation for development and use of a joint or shared satellite system 

revealed that, although such a system was technically feasible, concern over the 

extent of control the international consortium would have over the system precluded reaching an agreement with the Corporation. 

On July 15, 1964, the Secretary of Defense announced that the Department of 

Defense would proceed with the development of an independent Defense system 

designated the Initial Defense Communications Satellite Program (IDCSP). 

research and development TITAN IIIC launch vehicles will be used to place 

twenty-four satellites into near synchronous, near equatorial orbits. 

Three 

The basic objectives of the International Defense Communications Satellite 

Program are to: 

a. Conduct system research, development, testing and evaluation to 

determine the operational compatibility, capability and utility of 

the system to meet user requirements. 

43 
b. Provide an emergency capability for supplementing the Defense 

Communications System and improving the assurance of provision 

of the minimum essential survivable communications for National 

Military Command and Control purposes. 

c. Establish a research and development communications satellite system 

in being, designed to lead eventually into an operational system through 

integration with the Defense Communications System and thereby capable 

of providing service to specified users of the National Communications 

System. 

The IDCSP promises to give good coverage to the communications links of 

military interest. With only one TITAN IIIC multiple launch, of eight satellites, 

outage times for most of the communication links would be less than ten percent. 

With two launches, outages would be less than one percent for most links. 

The capability will gradually degrade due to normal satellite failures, but should 

provide an acceptable capability for some two to three years. 

Studies are now underway for an advanced system characterized by long life in 

orbit. In addition, the military departments are studying the development of a 

capability for tactical communications via satellites. 

The Department of Defense TRADE POST test program was successfully 

completed in March 1964. 

and experience factors with respect to technical capabilities of transportable 

terminals to operate with communications satellites. 

commercial ground terminals and all available communications satellites such 

as SYNCOM, TELSTAR, and RELAY were employed in tpe test program. 

addition, requirements for ope ration, maintenance, personnel and logistical 

support were accumulated to aid in planning ground terminals for tactical use 

with future military communications satellite systems. 

The purpose of the program was to obtain test data 

Both military and 

In 

The Department of Defense provided ground terminals in support of the NASA 

SYNCOM I1 and 111 programs and test results have been promising. Through the 

cooperation of DOD and NASA, SYNCOM 111 knd a receiving antenna at Point Mugu, 

California, were made available to the Communications Satellite Corporation for 

trans-Pacific telecasts of the 1964 Olympic games in Japan. 

Proiect WEST FORD 

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology, under Department of Defense 

sponsorship, completed Project WEST FORD in 1964, an experiment on the use 

of passive dipoles in orbit for communications. Some 480 million fibers, each 

1.8 centimeters long and .0018 centimeters in diameter were placed in a 2000 

mile orbit to provide an artificially created ionospheric belt which was used to 

reflect radio signals over-the-horizon. 

belt of needles tested the concept of orbital scatter communications. 

The communication links created by this 

Several conclusions from this experiment were reached and reported during 1964. 

It is now possible to predict reasonably accurately the characteristics of orbiting 

dipoles. The belt exhibited a physical behavior that is in general agreement with 
predictions. 

distributed, did not interfere with radio and optical astronomical observations. 

A complete technical assessment of Project WEST FORD has been published by 

the National Academy of Sciences. 

of future orbital scatter 'communications systems can now be studied with better 

understanding of their potential advantages and disadvantages. 

Spaceborne Nuclear Detection (VELA) 

Of considerable significance was the fact that the dipole belt as 

As a result of this experiment, the design 

The purpose of the VELA Satellite Program is to develop a satellite-based nuclear 

test detection capability for high altitude and deep space nuclear tests. 

Advanced Research Projects Agency research and development program is 

jointly conducted by the USAF and AEC. 

This 

The performance of the nuclear test detection satellites launched into orbit about 

the earth has been outstanding. The four VELA spacecraft launched during 1963 

and 1964 continue to remain in operation, providing radiation background data and 

information on the operation of various nuclear test detection sensors in space as 

well as providing a capability for detecting clandestine nuclear test detonations 

conducted in outer space. Test data are providing DOD with a clearer concept of 

the costs and capabilities of an operational space test detection system as well as 

design characteristics for a satellite-based world wide nuclear test detection 

system. The radiation background data are also of general scientific value for the 

study of solar and galactic radiation and trapped particles in the earth's magnetosphere. In addition to the accomplishment of their R&D objectives, the four VELA 

satellites in orbit are providing an interim monitoring capability particularly 

significant because of the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. 

Future launches in the program are planned to permit the incorporation of 

improvements in sensors and to conduct related experiments. ' 

Anti -Satellite Systems 

The Air Force and the Army have developed and tested systems which are capable 

of intercepting and destroying armed satellites. Both the Air Force system which 

employs the THOR missile and the Army system which employs the NIKE ZEUS 

have been tested against satellites in space and have demonstrated the capability 

of intercepting a target within the destruction radius of the warhead. 

utilize data from our global space detection and tracking networks. 

Both systems 

The Air Force is currently conducting exploratory, advanced and engineering 

development effort plus conceptual studies, to improve the present anti-satellite 

system capability and to provide the design concept and technological base for 

follow-on systems. 

Geodetic Satellites 

The Department of Defense is continuing to participate in the National Geodetic 

Satellite Program which is under the overall project management direction of 

NASA. 

as providing a world-wide network of tracking and readout stations. 

All three military services are contributing satellite subsystems as well 

45 
An Army Corps of Engineers Sequential Collation of Range (SECOR) geodetic 

satellite successfully achieved orbit in January 1964. 

series of tests with SECOR an electronic distance measuring system designed 

to make use of the intermediary space positions of artificial satellites for determining geodetic positions on earth. 

completed on May 1, 1964. The preliminary results of data reduction indicate 

that SECOR, the first weather independent system to be developed for the 

extension of control over multiples of hundreds of miles between stations, has 

the accuracy of a first order geodetic tool. 

This event initiated a 

A three month test period was successfully 

The NASA Beacon Explorer Satellite launched on October 9, 1964 contained both 

the Navy doppler transmitters and the Air Force flashing light system. 

The data resulting from the doppler tracking of satellites in the past year have 

been analyzed extensively. As a result of this analysis, additional knowledge of 

the earth's gravitational field has been obtained and a refined shape of the earth 

(geoid) has been defined. 

perturbations in the orbits of near-earth satellites to be launched in the future. 

This knowledge will assist in the prediction of the 

Further refinements in the shape of the geoid will result from additional 

reduction of data received from the tracking of satellites in polar orbits. 

absolute locations of points on the earth's surfaces are now known to at least 

an order of magnitude better than when the program started. 

continues, it is expected that this knowledge will improve to about another order 

of magnitude. More precise mapping and charting of the earth's surface will 

re sult . 

The 

As the program 

Navigation Satellite Program 

The DOD (Navy) Navigation Satellite System has been in operation for more than 

one year, and reached operational status in July 1964. 

system has demonstrated an accuracy and reliability equivalent to LORAN "C", 

but on a world-wide basis. 

ships and submarines with satellite navigators. The Navigation Satellite System 

is the first operational space system that has been employed in day to day direct 

support of fleet operations. 

continued by the Navy to improve the lifetime of satellites and the cost effectiveness of the system. Recently, the USS LONG BEACH, a nuclear powered 

Cruiser, completed a round-the-world cruise during which satellite fixes 

provided the only accurate navigation fixes available during most of the journey 

due to bad weather. 

During this time, the 

At the present time the Navy is equipping selected 

Additional research and development effort will be 

During the course of this development, the Navy has demonstrated the feasibility 

of employing passive gravity gradient stabilization and the employment of nuclear 

isotope electrical power in operational space systems. 

Large Solid ProDellant Motor Program 

In May 1964 the first 156-inch diameter solid propellant rocket successfully 

completed a full-scale static firing. The motor produced a maximum thrust 

of a million pounds and averaged approximately 900,000 pounds thrust during 

its two-minute firing. 

* 

This major milestone in the Air Force large solid motor 

46 
technology program also demonstrated the integrity under firing conditions of a 

segmented motor case rolled and welded from maraged nickel-steel. 

After hydro-testing, the motor case sections were refurbished and reloaded for 

a second firing. The second firing in September also met all test objectives and 

confirmed the advanced state of motor case technology. 

These firings are significant because 156-inch motors are the largest transportable overland by existing methods. 

truck from New York to California for loading. 

were then trucked to the firing site by way of the California highway system 

with no serious difficulty. 

a large single movable nozzle for thrust direction control was successfully 

fired in December 1964. 

The case used was transported by 

The fully loaded segments 

One additional 156 inch diameter motor employing 

SPACE GROUND SUPPORT 

Department of Defense National Ranges 

The National Range complex within the Department of Defense consists of the 

White Sands Missile Range and the Kwajalein Test Site managed by the Army; 

the Pacific Missile Range managed by the Navy; and the Eastern Test Range, 

the Western Test Range, and the Satellite Control Facility managed by the 

Air Force. 

In accordance with direction provided by the Secretary of Defense in November 

1963, the management aspects of the Department of Defense missile test ranges 

were realigned. 

Force and the realignment of the DOD test facilities have been effected to 

provide more efficient and economical support for the Nation's space program 

and for the DOD's ICBM and AICBM development efforts. 

reorganization of the Nation's range complex is aimed at bringing about 

operational savings resulting from standardization of equipment and procedures. 

The principal changes effected by this action include: 

The creation of the National Range Division within the Air 

Specifically, the 

a. 

b. 

C. 

the establishment on May 15, 1964 of the National Range Division, 

a single manager within the Air Force, to coordinate and conduct 

planning of ICBM and space tracking activities involving the Eastern 

Test Range, the Western Test Range, and the Satellite Control Facility. 

the transfer of Navy managed facilities at Point Arguello in 

California, South Point and Kokee Park in Hawaii, Canton Island, 

and Eniwetok to the Air Force. 

before July 1, 1965. 

This action will be completed 

the transfer on July 1, 1964 of the Navy managed Kwajalein Test 

Site to the Army. 

are to be responsible to the requirements of the ZEUS testing and 

NIKE X programs, operation of the Atoll facilities for all range 

users will be in accordance with the established national range 

policies. 

While Kwajalein range management and operations 

47 
The total capability of the national range complex is growing at a pace set by 

the ever-increasing data needs of the DOD missile programs and the expanding 

space program. During the past year the ranges have upgraded portions of the 

metric tracking instrumentation to meet more stringent accuracy requirements 

imposed in the test and evaluation of the various short range missiles, IRBM, 

ICBM, and space vehicles. Specifically, the Eastern Test Range has added a 

new launch area telemetry facility to its resources. This new facility houses 

the latest in telemetry data receiving, recording, and separation equipment. 

Additionally, the installation of a real time computer system at Cape Kennedy 

materially improves the ETR range safety capability by permitting the display 

of real time position and projection impact location derived from the sensors 

available to the system. 

The Pacific Missile Range has established a computer center to extend the 

utilization of equipment procured to support its real time data handling system. 

This facility, in operation since March 1964, assures more effective coordination 

of the support activities association with the 158 separate projects presently 

assigned to the range. The PMR, too, has enhanced its capacity for downrange 

support with the acquisition of the USNS WHEELING (AGM-8). This mobile 

station, equipped with C-band radar, telemetry, communications, and a 

helicopter recovery capability is a valuable complement to the shore based 

instrumentation. 

programs in this instance, the TAA2 radar installation at PMR provided 

communication support with the successful video transmission of the Japanese 

Olympic games via SYNCOM III. 

Although not tied directly to space or missile development 

The White Sands Missile Range modernization efforts during the past year have 

been directed towards establishing and maintaining a modern and efficient test 

laboratory. 

ments as well as to provide an increased real time and quick look capability is 

being emphasized for procurement. Command and control facilities are being 

installed to provide more efficient range operations and to reduce turn-around 

time. 

Instrumentation designed specifically to improve trajectory measureThe NASA operated APOLLO propulsion development facility is under 

construction at WSMR, and two successful tests of the APOLLO abort system 

have been carried out in the LITTLE JOE program. 

has been expanded to permit off-range launches such as those associated with 

the reentry physics research program. 

experiments, WSMR is responsible for supporting more than 170 separately 

managed air and missile programs that are currently assigned to the range. 

The capability of the WSMR 

In addition to the space oriented 

In consonance with the current program to develop the most effective use of 

available resources, national range instrumentation ships have been pooled into 

a single national fleet. The Military Sea Transport Service is responsible for 

ship operation, while the Instrumentation Ship Project Office (ISPO), under the 

Chief of Navy Material, is charged with the requirements for reconditioning, 

modifying, equipping and checking out the vessels. Technical operations, 

scheduling and central ship planning have been assigned to the Air Force 

National Range Division. 

48 
The merits of central planning and pooling of resources were demonstrated 

earlier this year with the completion of the joint DOD/NASA study of instrumentation ship needs. 

needs of the Air Force, Navy and NASA can be met with three less vessels than 

if the Agencies had conducted separate instrumentation ship operations. 

combining of effort resulted in a capital investment saving of about $30.0 million 

and eliminated the need for an additional outlay of $6. 0 million a year in 

operations and maintenance costs. Centralized scheduling will make inter-ocean 

deployment possible and will ultimately allow the deactivation of two instrumentation ships which will result in an additional annual saving of about $2. 6 million. 

The data produced by this study showed that the combined 

This 

In February 1964, the Air Force implemented an operations plan for its 

meteorological rocket network. 

of the atmosphere above balloon-sensing altitudes and is used to support the 

missile test ranges. 

and are used to evaluate booster performance and to support range safety 

operations. 

and wind and computation of density up to 200, 000 feet altitude from six sites 

of the Eastern Test Range plus a far-north site at Fort Churchill, Manitoba, 

Canada. 

and meteorological data gathering have also been outfitted for the launching of 

meteorological rockets in support of the Meteorological Rocket Network. 

The new network provides for synoptic coverage 

Data are collected on upper atmospheric density and winds, 

The current operation provides for measurements of temperature 

The range instrumentation ships used to support the ranges in tracking 

Space Detection and Tracking System (SPADATS) 

SPADATS is a system designed to provide the North American Air Defense 

Command (NORAD) with a capability for detecting, tracking, identifying, and 

maintaining constant surveillance of all man-made objects orbiting the earth. 

The system also provides the basic ground elements for defensive systems to 

cope with any threat that may be posed by hostile space vehicles. 

consists of the Navy operated Space Surveillance System (SPASUR), the Air 

Force Spacetrack System, and an Air Force operated computer at CINCNORAD. 

The information acquired by both Spacetrack and SPASUR is fed into the Air 

Force operated computer at NORAD where position of satellites is updated and 

predictions of future track locations made. 

SPADATS 

The Spacetrack system is a globally deployed network of conventional radars 

and optical devices which first detect a satellite then lock on to the target and 

follow it to determine its location in space. 

tinental United States, Alaska and the Aleutian Islands, Trinidad, United 

Kingdom, and Turkey. 

Norway, and Johnston Island. During 1964 the capability of the system was 

enhanced by the addition of new long-range Spacetrack radars in Alaska and 

Turkey. 

Radars are located in the conOptical devices are located in the United States, Canada, 

SPASUR consists of three transmitting and four receiving stations located on a 

great circle extending from Savannah, Georgia, to San Diego, California. These 

stations use antennae that form narrow beams in the north-south direction and 

broad beams in the east-west direction. 

determine the position of the detected object, calculate its direction of travel, 

and predict its future position. 

These stations permit SPASUR to 

49 
AERONAUTICS DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY 

XB-70 DeveloDment 

The XB-70 program consists of two experimental flight test vehicles. 

objectives are to determine problems and behavior relating to a large aircraft 

designed to fly up to Mach 3. 

aircraft. 

The 

Many new design features are represented in this 

The first vehicle was completed in May 1964 with first flight September 21, 1964. 

A total of four flights have been made. 

date is 46, 200 feet and Mach 1.42. 

conducted prior to making further flights to prepare for higher speed tests. 

Maximum speed and altitude attained to 

A series of proof-loading tests are being 

The second vehicle is expected to fly before the end of 1965. 

NASA has provided funds for special instrumentation in the XB-70 to gather 

flight test data for specific value to support the National Commercial Supersonic 

Transport program and for the supersonic aeronautical research activity conducted 

by NASA. 

vided by joint agency agreement. 

Advanced Manned Strategic Aircraft 

FAA and NASA participation in the flight test program has been proThe Air Force continues to study potential candidates for a replacement aircraft 

to the B-52. A strategic version of the F-111 and a new proposal, Advanced 

Manned Strategic Aircraft (AMSA), are currently the two most promising 

alternatives. 

The F-111 modified to accommodate a third crew member, external fuel, 

extended fuselage, improved avionics and other changes required for strategic 

missions is being studied and compared with the AMSA. It would have about the 

same speed and dispersal capabilities as the AMSA; however, for strategic 

coverage, it requires aerial refueling. 

The AMSA would have sufficient unrefueled range for strategic missions. 

presently envisioned, the aircraft would require substantial propulsion and 

avionics development in order to fulfill the projected mission. 

areas are being funded in FY 1965 and FY 1966. 

now underway will provide, in about 2 years, a more valid basis upon which to 

make a decision for the development of a new aircraft. 

As 

Both of these 

Advanced development work 

Y F- 12A Interceptor 

The development of the YF-12A and its associated armament system offers a 

significant advance in interceptor capabilities for manned bomber defense. 

addition to the great operational potential of the YF-12A, the system represents 

major advances in technology in the fields of aeronautics, propulsion and 

avionics. The development of the aircraft was made possible by major achievements in aircraft technology and metallurgy. 

in an aircraft capable of sustained speeds of more than 2000 miles an hour. 

In 

These accomplishments resulted 

50 
The high thrust engine, the only engine flight tested at more than three times the 

speed of sound, has been qualified at the required high operating temperatures. 

The engine project included the successful development and application of several 

new high -tempe rature alloys. 

The YF-12A incorporates the Air Force Advanced Armament System, which 

includes the ASG-18 pulse doppler fire control system and the AIM-47A air-to-air 

guided missile. 

exceeding those obtainable with current interceptors. 

This system has demonstrated radar detection ranges appreciably 

The performance of the aircraft and the increased radar and missile capabilities 

offer one of several sets of possibilities for technological improvement and new 

concepts of interceptors for air defense should a decision be made to develop a 

new interceptor force. 

major significance for other military and commercial aviation applications. 

The technical achievements of the program also have 

X-15A Research Aircraft 

Last year the Air Force modified one of the X-15 Research Aircraft to increase 

its speed capability from Mach 6 (4100 mph) to Mach 8 (5400 mph). The modified 

aircraft made its first flight in June 1964. 

modest supersonic speed and altitude to verify the predicted flight characteristics 

of the aircraft. 

gradually approach the design top speed and increase our knowledge of the 

manned hyper sonic flight regime. 

The first flight was at a relatively 

During the coming year the NASA-Air Force test team will 

F-111 

The F-111A is being developed as a fighter weapon system for Air Force use in 

either limited or general war. 

for the Navy. 

The F-111B will perform fleet air defense missiors 

The F-111A and B basic aircraft configuration was released to the public in May 

of 1964 and on October 15, 1964 the roll out ceremony took place at Fort Worth, 

Texas. First flight of the F-111A took place successfully in December 1964 and 

the F-ll1B is scheduled for first flight within a year. 

The configuration of the F-ll1A was changed during the year to include automatic 

terrain avoidance, computing optical sight, an alternate gun installation, SHRIKE 

missile and penetration aids. 

Helicopter and V/STOL Development 

DOD is continuing a development program oriented toward improving helicopter 

performance and handling qualities and developing vertical and short take-offs 

and landing (V/STOL) aircraft. 

The joint Army-Navy rigid rotor program and the XH-51 flight tests have 

produced technical data leading to improved stability and control, handling 

qualities, vibration levels, and high speed performance. A high speed helicopter 

research program has made excellent progress to date in increasing helicopter 

speed capability to the 200 knot class. The modifications include the installation 

51 
of wings to unload the rotor at high speeds and auxiliary propulsion systems for 

improved high speed thrust. 

An advanced research helicopter employing the hot cycle propulsion system was 

constructed and flew for the first time in November 1964. The hot cycle system 

employs the principle of piping hot gases through the rotor hub and rotor blades 

and exhausting the gases out at the blade tips, thus eliminating the requirement 

for heavy and expensive gear drives now used in conventional helicopters. The 

objective of this program is to determine the feasibility of lighter weight heavy 

lift systems for air mobile operations. 

Operational suitability testing is continuing on 6 CH-54 flying crane helicopters 

which have a payload capability of 8-10 tons. The future of the various design 

approaches to the flying crane is being studied by the Department of the Army. 

Tri-Service V/STOL Program 

The three military services continued the development and flight test of V/STOL 

transport type aircraft following three different V/STOL concepts. 

wing XC-142A V/STOL transport program under Air Force management 

accomplished its first flight in the conventional mode on September 20, 1964. 

In late 1964 the aircraft is scheduled to undergo hover flight testing and 

transition from vertical to horizontal flight. 

overall program will be the operational suitability testing to be accomplished 

in 1965. 

The tilt 

Of prime importance to the 

The tilt propeller X-19A V/STOL research vehicle also under Air Force management completed the hover phase of the flight test program. 

vertical to horizontal flight and conventional mode flight testing was accomplished 

in the latter part of 1964. 

The transition from 

The Navy managed X-22A rotating ducted propeller V/STOL research airplane is 

progressing through the design and fabrication phase. 

is now currently scheduled for the Spring of 1965. 

The first flight of the X-22A 

The Department of the Army's interest in a V/STOL surveillance aircraft would 

be to provide the Army with an integrated system for performing tactical aerial 

surveillance and target acquisition that would substantially improve Army 

capability to perform the intelligence function of land combat. Three programs 

in progress will provide technical and operational data to definitize military 

characteristics for such a V/STOL surveillance aircraft. These programs are 

the XV-4A "Hummingbird" which uses the jet pump principle, the XV-5A 

"Fan-in-Wing" which uses fans in each wing to augment the thrust from the 

engine for vertical lift, and the XV-6A (P. 1127) which utilizes the vectored 

thrust principle. 

principle has shown a thrust augmentation of up to 300%. 

are in flight status and XV-6A operational suitability testing begins in the 

United Kingdom in the spring of 1965. 

In tests of these aircraft to date, the XV-SA'S fan-in-wing 

All three programs 

52 
X-21A Laminar Flow Control Aircraft 

The Laminar Flow Control Demonstration Aircraft program has not yet proven 

in practice the concept of drag reduction by suction through a large number of 

very fine slots in the wing. 

were not going to be achieved with the current wing leading edge. Wind tunnel 

tests and a modification to a small part of the leading edge of one X-21A showed 

that increased laminar flow could be achieved by making the leading edge 

sharper. 

promising, the Air Force may modify the entire leading edge of one of the two 

X-21A's next year. 

to be demonstrated. 

During the year it became clear that optimum results 

If current wind t.unne1 tests of the refined design are sufficiently 

The operational utility and value of this technique remains 

C-141A Transport Aircraft 

The C-141A program to develop and produce a high speed, jet powered, cargo 

transport aircraft for both military and commercial use has continued into the 

flight test phase. Following the first flight in December 1963, eight aircraft 

entered an intensive test program during 1964. The Number 9 aircraft was 

delivered to the Military Air Transport Service on October 19, 1964. This 

aircraft and the next thirteen C-141's delivered will be used for transition 

training of flight and ground crews. The first operational squadron will be 

completely equipped in July 1965, followed by a rapid build-up in squadron 

strength. 

fleet will greatly extend the speed, range, and versatility of the Nation's airlift 

capability. 

The introduction of this aircraft into the military-civilian transport 

COIN Aircraft 

The counterinsurgency aircraft program continues the dual approach philosophy 

aimed at the ultimate achievement of developing a relatively low cost versatile 

aircraft for use in limited war. 

The Air Force completed its evaluation of modified T-37 and T-28 aircraft and 

is formulating its position on the use of these aircraft for counterinsurgency 

mis sions. 

A light Armed Reconnaissance Aircraft (LARA) is based on a requirement 

expressed by the Marines. 

and cargo. 

COIN is now specified as a twin engine 600-650 horsepower turboprop aircraft 

of short wing span, with short take-off performance, capable of austere 

operation off unimproved fields, roads, large amphibious landing craft (LPH) 

and aircraft carriers without the use of arresting gear. The DOD envisions 

COIN as a Military Assistance Program Aircraft in the counterinsurgency 

role with applications as well for the Marine Corps, Army and Air Force in 

limited warfare. 

aircraft was signed on October 15, 1964. 

It is to have a limited capability to transport people 

An optional configuration would provide an amphibious capability. 

An R&D contract for the development and delivery of seven 

53 
Short Airfield for Tactical Support 

This system has been developed and delivered to the Marine Corps in response 

to a requirement for close air support of Marine assault and amphibious forces 

soon after a landing. 

unimproved site and quickly assembled to allow operation of first line fighter 

and attack aircraft within three days after arrival of the equipment. 

completed operational evaluation in 1964 and deliveries have commenced. 

It permits a complete airfield to be air transported into an 

The system 

SUPPORTING RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY 

Over -the -Ho rizon Radar 

The Department of Defense has demonstrated the feasibility of detecting aircraft 

and missiles over the radar or line-of-sight horizon. 

radars eliminate a serious limitation inherent in present day conventional radars. 

It will now be possible to detect aircraft and missiles at longer ranges and lower 

altitudes than previously possible, thereby providing earlier warning to defense 

agencies. This new capability was achieved by a comprehensive research and 

development program carried out over the past decade by the Navy, Air Force 

and the Advanced Research Projects Agency. 

exploit this new technology will be continued. 

These new over-the-horizon 

A program to improve and 

Lifting Reentrv Technologv 

The current reentry technology programs are known as START and ASSET. 

Employing small unmanned test vehicles, they are adding to the background 

technology and developing the means of maneuvering spacecraft during the 

extreme speed of reentry into the earth's atmosphere, followed by a precision 

landing. 

The START program is developing a small reentry system, based upon a 

particular lifting-body shape known as the SV-5, with the objective of returning 

instruments and data from orbit. 

which are not susceptible to transmission by telemetry. The START program 

will provide a flexible and accurate system for placing experimental results in 

the hands of the experimentors where direct examination is necessary. 

Many experiments produce results and records 

The ASSET program is investigating radiative cooled vehicle configurations 

and the START program ablation-type maneuvering lifting body reentry 

configurations. 

merits of aerodynamic shapes. 

program is to determine the performance improvements which could be 

realized by exploiting advanced component or subsystem design concepts. 

To date only the ASSET reentry vehicle has reached flight test status. 

overall program is expected to contribute significantly to the development of 

lifting reentry technology of potential importance to both military and civilian 

space activities . 

Both programs have related design studies to assess the 

The objective of the DOD reentry technology 

The 

Several ASSET flight tests were successfully accomplished during 1964. 

most notable of these took place on July 22 when ASV-3, the third ASSET flight 

The 

54 
test vehicle, was launched by a two-stage THOR DELTA booster and recovered 

after a 1400 mile flight down the Eastern Test Range to impact in the ocean east 

of Antigua. 

successfully flown and recovered. 

This marked the first time a glide reentry vehicle had been 

The actual flight trajectory of this vehicle was very close to the planned trajectory. 

Booster separation and glide insertion occurred at an altitude of about 213, 000 

feet and a velocity of 18, 000 fps (mach 15. 5). 

extremely well and the vehicle was sighted by an Air Rescue Service search plane 

a few minutes after impact. 

additional buoy, and the 1100 pound flight test vehicle was complete some 12 

hours later. 

All vehicle subsystems performed 

Pick-up of four paradivers, dropped to attach an 

Recovery of the ASV-3 vehicle satisfied a prime objective of the ASSET program. 

Correlation of in-flight data with the excellent condition of the recovered vehicle 

was validated. Theoretical considerations, as well as testing and predictive 

techniques, of considerable importance to the future development of aerodynamic 

configurations, radiative materials and structural concepts for future lifting 

reentry applications were also confirmed. 

In May 1964, under the aegis of the Aeronautics and Astronautics Coordinating 

Board, a special review of all significant USAF and NASA research and development programs in the field of lifting reentry was undertaken. The purpose of the 

review was to ensure that present and planned programs in this field were 

complementary rather than duplicative and directed to the attainment of 

objectives of maximum value to both agencies. 

Advanced Ballistic Reentry Systems Program 

The Advanced Ballistic Reentry Systems Program (ABRES) is the DOD program 

for advanced development of reentry technology and devices for operational 

ballistic missile systems. This program provides the technology for increasing 

the accuracy and effectiveness of missile reentry systems and to assure that 

these systems will penetrate a defended target. 

in both areas of endeavor. 

Significant progress was made 

Laboratory experiments and flight tests were conducted on various penetration 

techniques and tactics. 

materials were flown from both the Eastern and Western Test Ranges. These 

experiments have greatly enhanced understanding of the phenomenology of 

reentry bodies and the test results have provided an essential input to continued 

improvement of ballistic missile operational effectiveness. 

Flight tests of experimental reentry body shapes and 

Cesium Contact Ion Engine in Space 

An important scientific milestone was achieved late in the summer of 1964 on 

the behavior of a cesium contact ion engine in space. 

the following: 

Test data review revealed 

a. nautralization of the positively charged ion beam was successful. 

55 
b. 

C. 

d. 

there was nothing to indicate that the ion engine interferes in any 

way with communications. 

although measurement of in-flight engine thrust was not accomplished 

because the power supply inverter to the reference system failed, beam 

power measurements indicated a thrust of 2.08 millipounds. 

electrical measurements of performance in space verified laboratory 

data previously obtained. 

minutes at a full regulated thrust of 2.09 millipounds and a specific 

impulse of 7,370 seconds. 

The thrust time was 17 minutes with 9 

Ion engines inherently are capable of small thrust, long duration, and 

extremely good fuel economy. Because of these factors the potential value of 

this engine lies in long duration near earth missions for sustaining satellite 

orbit, satellite attitude control and orbit transfer. Additional evaluation tests 

of ion engines in the space environment are planned in conjunction with the space 

nuclear power program. 

SDace Power EauiDment 

The DOD continued to examine various concepts for meeting anticipated high 

electrical power requirements of future satellites. 

of more than several hundred watts, careful consideration has been given to 

both nuclear and solar powered generators. 

Commission and the DOD reached agreement on the funding and management of 

SNAPSHOT, a flight test program of the SNAP 10A nuclear electric space 

power unit. The design and development of radiation hardened electronic 

components for the power distribution, and the command and telemetering 

circuits of the AGENA spacecraft were initiated by the Air Force in 1961. 

All of the specially designed components have been subjected to qualification 

tests and are undergoing a 9000-hour life test as part of the USAF technical 

effort to prepare them for launch of the SNAP 10A in April 1965. 

in FY 1965 all funds for the USAF prime contract and for the ATLAS and 

AGENA are provided by the Atomic Energy Commission. 

For possible requirements 

In 1964, the Atomic Energy 

Commencing 

Restartable Solid Rocket Motor 

Rocket thrust termination, restart and throttling, formerly available in liquid 

propellant systems, is now attainable with solid propellant systems. 

propellant rocket motor was successfully operated through five cycles of 

command thrust termination, restart, and thrust modulation control. The 

time between motor operations was varied to as long as several hours to 

simulate actions required in some space maneuvering trajectories. These 

tests represented the first of this type in solid propellant rocketry. This 

increased flexibility added to the inherent simplicity and reliability of the 

solid rocket mtor will make it more attractive in such applications as 

terminal guidance for advanced military weapon systems and future propulsion 

systems. 

A solid 

56 
Materials Re search 

The Air Force is developing a new material for possible use in aerospace craft, 

missiles and other devices requiring lightweight-high strength structures. The 

key to the program, which may prove to be a great advance in materials, is the 

discovery of a way to produce continuously very thin filaments of elemental 

boron. 

quantities with a tensile strength of 400, 000 pounds per square inch and a 

modulus of elasticity (stiffness) of 60, 000, 000 pounds per square inch. 

Measurements show these filaments have been produced in laboratory 

The filaments can be formed into a plastic composite material as glass fibers 

are now used where they act much like steel rods in concrete or the cords in 

rubber tires. The resulting material would be as rigid as beryllium and light 

as aluminum. Potential applications are to make missile rocket cases lighter 

and stronger, for use in the cool portions of turbojet engines to increase their 

thrust-to-weight ratio, or to provide lighter aircraft structures. 

Work is just beginning on composite materials using three filaments and 

considerable work must be done to study effects of fiber orientation, per cent 

volume of fiber to resin matrix (plastic), bond integrity between fiber and 

matrix, environmental effects, cost reduction, process speeds and other 

production and design problems. 

Gravitv Gradient Stabilization for Satellites 

The Navy has performed the major pioneering effort in this field. 

is currently stabilizing a constellation of navigation satellites using a system 

designed by the Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), John Hopkins University. 

Four satellites have been stabilized using the APL gravity gradient system of 

which 2 were placed in orbit in 1964. 

This technique 

In January 1964, the Naval Research Laboratory launched a gravity gradient 

experiment employing a different system than the APL approach. 

satellite was a 20 inch sphere weighing approximately 70 pounds. 

stabilization system hardware weighed an additional 15 pounds. 

gradient stabilization system operated entirely as predicted and passively 

oriented the satellite to within t 6O of the vertical. 

The test 

The 

This gravity 

- 

Three more gravity gradient stabilized satellites are scheduled to be launched 

by NRL in early 1965. 

current damper. 

boom. 

a magnetically anchored viscous fluid damper. 

in a skewed IlYl' with three, 60 foot booms. 

end of the leg of the l'Y" and a 2. 9 pound mass will be extended at the tip of 

each arm. 

dum bb ell configuration. 

One satellite will use a magnetically anchored eddy 

It will be of a dumbbell configuration employing a 41 foot 

The second satellite will stabilize around all three axes. It will use 

This system will be configured 

The damper will be extended at the 

The third satellite will have a two axis stabilization system of the 

The tip mass will be the boom deployment mechanism which will be extended 

from the satellite by an 18 foot boom. 

damper which will act as a hinge between the satellite and the boom-tip mass 

structure. 

The damper will be an eddy current 

57 
The tests previously mentioned have all been conducted in relatively low orbit 

(about 500 miles). 

a joint DOD/NASA gravity gradient experiment will be conducted in 1966 at an 

altitude of 6, 000 miles utilizing one of the NASA Advanced Technology Satellites 

as a platform. 

cations Satellite Program. 

synchronous altitude (22, 000 miles) ,during the same time frame for the purpose 

of establishing the practicality of using the gravity gradient technique at that 

altitude to stabilize the future advanced military communications satellite 

system during the 1967-1970 period. 

During 1964 an agreement with NASA was reached whereby 

This experiment is being performed for the Military CommuniIn addition, the DOD plans an experiment at 

General Support, Research and Development 

Effort continued in 1964 in the area of astrophysics, astronomy, bioastronautics, 

entry physics, lasers, space power and propulsion systems, solid state physics, 

aerodynamics, stability and control, materials research, and advanced 

structures. 

The following accomplishments are worthy of highlighting: 

a. an aircraft was illuminated and tracked by a pulsed laser beam. 

is anticipated that the outgrowth of this development may be the 

tracking of orbiting satellites to ascertain their precise orbits. 

It 

b. in the materials area, recent efforts have resulted in the ability to 

form new improved non-melting fibers intended for reinforcements 

of thermally protective composites which are used in rocket exhaust 

and in high shear force reentry environments. 

c. on June 16, 1964 the Naval Research Laboratory in a follow-up 

x-ray astronomy experiment to one conducted in June 1963, revealed 

2 discrete x-ray sources in Scorpius and the Crab Nebula. The rocket 

probe experiment also revealed several strong new sources and these 

results have important bearing on present theories of the nature of 

gravitational collapse of massive stellar objects and of peculiar 

galaxies about which man knows very little. Further survey 

experiments with improved detectors promise that a full map 

of the sky may reveal a substantial number of x-ray sources. 

Neutron stars have been postulated as one means by which these 

x-rays may be generated. However, on July 7, 1964, a lunar 

occulation of the Crab Nebula was observed with an inertially 

pointed aerobee rocket probe experiment during 4. 5 minutes of 

the occultation of the central region of the Crab. The x-rays 

decreased gradually during the occultation, which apparently 

disproves the possibility that this source is a neutron star. 

The U. S. Naval School of Aviation Medicine, Pensacola, Florida, dedicated on 

July 22, 1964, a vestibular laboratory, jointly supported by DOD and NASA for 

the study of the effects of complex directional forces on the orientation of men 

operating in the space flight environment. 

58 
The Aviation Medical Acceleration Laboratory, U. S. Naval Air Development 

Center, Johnsville, Pennsylvania, completed in 1964 a major modernization 

of the human centrifuge. This unique research tool, presently the most 

advanced man-rated flight simulator in operation, is supporting DOD programs 

as well as the NASA GEMINI and APOLLO flight programs. 

COOPERATION WITH OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCIES 

General 

The close interaction and relationship between DOD and NASA as well as other 

government agencies has required continuous coordination with them. 

been achieved by direct and frequent contact at all staff levels. 

This has 

Joint NASA-DOD Review of National Space Program 

A series of critical joint reviews was conducted in each of several categories of 

the respective DOD and NASA space programs. Examinations were made of the 

(1) Launch Vehicle Program (2) Manned Earth Orbital Program (3) Communications Satellite Program (4) Weather Satellite Program and (5) Instrumentation 

Networks, Control Centers and Instrumentation Ships. As a consequence of 

these reviews, it was expected that substantial cost savings would accrue 

through the pointing up of objectives, mutual support and joint utilization of 

re sources . 

NASA-DOD Agreement on Research and Technolonv Exchange 

An agreement was concluded between DOD and NASA which provides for procedures 

and a common format for the reporting of the research and technology efforts of 

the respective agencies. 

interchange information and coordinate projects. 

exchange of 100,000 DOD documents and 4,000 NASA documents will be involved. 

The information is to be prepared in a manner suitable for machine processing. 

An exchange of data, in the form of resumes and magnetic tapes will occur twice 

within each fiscal year starting February 1965. 

cedures will result in more meaningful inter-agency decisions regarding 

program goals and balance. 

Such action will significantly enhance the ability to 

It is estimated that the 

It is expected that these proEstablishment of a National Program in Satellite Geodesy 

In accordance with Congressional recommendations, a national program in 

satellite geodesy was established to fulfill requirements of the Department of 

Defense, NASA and the Department of Commerce. 

necessary international cooperation. During 1964, a program plan was 

prepared and adopted which consists of essentially three phases involving 

(1) Beacon Explorers containing doppler transmitters (2) Active Geodetic 

Explorers containing flashing light, minitrack beacon, doppler transmitters, 

satellite clock, range and range rate system and SECOR and (3) Passive 

inflatable spheres. 

It also allows for the 

59 
Early Gravity Gradient Test for Defense Communications Satellite Program 

As presently planned, the Interim Defense Communications Satellite Program 

will employ spin stabilized satellites at near synchronous orbits. 

gradient stabilization could be achieved at such altitudes, it would have a 

significant impact on the design of the Advanced Defense Communications 

Satellite system. 

gravity gradient stabilization at such altitudes, agreement was reached and 

management plans developed to conduct an early test for the purpose. Such 

test would assess the feasibility of the technique and provide data for the 

selection of design parameters not only for the advanced system but for 

possible upgrading of the interim system. 

are to be jointly determined by DOD and NASA with procurement of the system 

assigned as a responsibility of the Air Force. 

If gravity 

In recognition of the importance and urgency of demonstrating 

The details of the experiments 

Launch Vehicle Reauirements 

The launch Vehicle Panel of the AACB has been engaged in a comprehensive 

study of various alternatives by which those launch vehicles in existence or 

under development may meet existing and projected mission needs of DOD and 

NASA for the 1965-1975 time period. 

meet requirements, costs, reliability, safety and response time criteria. 

Several options are being examined to 

Joint Navigation Satellite Committee 

An ad hoc Joint Navigation Satellite Committee was established by agreement 

between DOD and NASA, Departments of Commerce, Treasury, Interior and 

the Federal Aviation Agency. The purpose of this committee is to review the 

potential capability of space technology to contribute significantly to the improvement of air and sea navigation, air and sea traffic control and coordination, and 

air-sea emergency activities of the signatory departments and agencies. 

result of this review, it is expected that the committee will be able to determine 

and evaluate the requirements of such a system and assess the economic 

feasibility, desirability and cost effectiveness of selected systems to perform 

the outlined missions. 

As a 

Other AACB Directed Efforts 

In addition to the above agreements, joint studies and examinations were 

conducted under the AACB on: 

a. Launch Vehicle Improvement Requirements and Range Safety 

Conside rations. 

b. XB-70 Research Program. 

c. Procedures for Reporting Reliability of Space Systems. 

d. Lifting Reentry Vehicles. 

e. Use of TITAN III for NASA SURVEYOR missions. 

60 
DOD/NASA FY 1966 Facilities Coordination 

The Department of Defense and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration 

have established formal procedure for coordinating each year's proposed in-house 

facilities construction programs. 

construction programs of the two agencies has been thoroughly and jointly 

reviewed under these procedures. 

Each project in the proposed FY 1966 

DOD ParticiDation in the GEMINI Program 

The objective of the DOD GEMINI program is to raise the DOD experience level 

by evaluating techniques and equipment on NASA GEMINI flights which will 

contribute to potential manned military missions. 

able in the GEMINI capsule to house DOD experiments is severely limited, 

the experiments planned are expected to be applicable to the Manned Orbiting 

Laboratory program. 

Although the space availDOD participation in the GEMINI program is also providing the mechanism for 

timely flow of data from the NASA manned space flight activities to DOD agencies. 

DOD program approval and FY 1964 funding release were given in February 1964. 

During 1964 the Air Force continued to refine the design of the thirteen Air Force 

and three Navy experiments and to contract for flight hardware design, fabrication and integration of equipment into the GEMINI spacecraft. This work is 

proceeding on a schedule compatible with the NASA GEMINI flight dates. 

sixteen DOD experiments are scheduled for at least one mission on GEMINI 

flights 4 through 12. 

All 

Joint DOD/NASA GEMINI Program Planning Board meetings were held to assure 

that the DOD experiments and the development efforts, on the modified TITAN I1 

GEMINI launch vehicle were progressing in an effective and coordinated manner. 

Range Instrum entation Air craft 

The Air Force is taking action to consolidate DOD and NASA requirements and 

develop a national aircraft fleet in support of the National Missile and Space 

effort. 

ments as well as DOD needs is presently in the program definition stage at the 

Air Force System Command's Electronic Systems Division. 

fleet will be under the control of the National Range Division. 

Procurement of aircraft instrumentation to meet NASA APOLLO requireThe combined 

DOD Use of the NASA THOR/DELTA Space Vehicle 

A joint NASA/DOD study of the use of an improved NASA developed THOR/DELTA 

space booster has been conducted by the Launch Vehicle Panel of the Aeronautics 

and Astronautics Coordinating Board. 

has been determined and negotiations with the NASA for a management agreement on use of the DELTA at the Western Test Range are presently being 

completed. 

or three stage standard launch vehicle for missions at Cape Kennedy and the 

Western Test Range. 

The improved DELTA launch capability 

The improved DELTA vehicle was developed as a versatile two 

When THOR/D ELTA has demonstrated adequate 

61 
performance and reliability, DOD will use THOR/DELTA for payloads 

falling within this vehicle class. 

Personnel Surmort of NASA 

The Air Force and the NASA reached mutual agreement on guidlines regarding 

NASA requests for Air Force officers. The formal agreement, signed on 

September 15, 1964 sets forth specific criteria governing the terms of the 

NASA requests, the Air Force evaluation of the pos_itions requested and the 

selection of nominees. 

In general, the NASA requests are restricted to positions requiring education 

experience or skills especially developed by the Air Force in the fields of 

technical program management, engineering, and physical or life sciences. 

There are a total of 266 military officers assigned throughout the NASA 

organization. Of this number, 120 are from the Air Force, 105 from the 

Army, 36 from the Navy and 3 from the Marine Corps. 

General Support, Construction 

The Army Corps of Engineers supports the national space program by providing 

real estate acquisition and management services, engineering services, and 

design and construction of facilities. 

facilities at NASA's Manned Spacecraft Center, Clear Lake, Texas; test 

complexes at NASA's Mississippi Test Facility; and -1ir Force and NASA 

launch facilities at Cape Kennedy. Master planning was initiated for the 

NASA Electronic Research Center, Boston. 

Major projects in 1964 included 

62 
ATOMIC ENERGY COMMISSION CHAPTER 

V 

INTRODUCTION 

In 1964, the Atomic Energy Commission phased out its PLUTO Project, but 

continued to make steady advances in its programs to develop: 

a. nuclear systems for supplying power for spacecraft and satellites (SNAP); 

b. the technology for using nuclear rocket propulsion for space missions 

(ROVER); and 

c. satellite-based detection instruments and associated systems. 

PROJECT PLUTO 

Having completed repairs to the TORY IIC test facility at the Nevada Test Site, the 

Lawrence Radiation Laboratory resumed pre-nuclear air blowdowns and tests of 

the facility in January 1964. 

from the Laboratory in Livermore, Calif. to the test site, and on March 25 achieved 

criticality for the first time while assembled in the test vehicle. 

In mid-February the TORY IIC reactor was shipped 

On May 12 the reactor was operated at an intermediate power level which simulated 

flight at a 10,000-foot altitude and a speed of Mach 2.8 (2.8 times the speed of 

sound). The initial full-power ground test of the TORY IIC was conducted on May 20 

at test conditions which simulated nuclear ramjet engine flight at sea-level and 

design speed of Mach 2. 8. Both tests were unqualifiedly successful. 

The Department of Defense notified the AEC on July 1 that it had decided against 

pursuing a flight test objective with the PLUTO program. 

guidance, additional planned tests of the reactor were cancelled and the TORY IIC 

program was phased out. 

mothballed. 

In response to this 

PLUTO test facilities at the Nevada Test Site were 

Investigations of possible alternate applications of the very high temperature gascooled PLUTO reactor technology are currently in progress. 

SNAP PROGRAM 

SNAP Radioisotone Units 

In April, the third 25-watt plutonium-238-fueled SNAP-9A generator designed to 

supply all of the power needs of a Department of Defense navigational satellite was 

launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. It did not achieve orbit because 

of a failure of the launch behicle. All available evidence confirms that the generator 

63 
burned up at high altitude upon its re-entry into the earth's atmosphere and that its 

fuel was dispersed in vey fine particles over an extremely wide area at the edge of 

space as it was designed to do. 

successfully launched into orbit in 1963. 

Two identical SNAP-9A generators had been 

An electrically heated SNAP-9A generator was delivered to the NASA's Manned 

Spacecraft Center, Houston, Texas, for performance testing and familiarization 

purpose s. 

A SNAP- 11 electrically-heated prototype thermoelectric generator, developed 

to power the instruments in NASA's soft-lunar-landing SURVEYOR spacecraft, 

was delivered to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif., early in May 

for environmental testing. 

Two electrically-heated prototype SNAP- 13 thermionic generators, developed as 

back-up units for the SNAP-11, survived hot dynamic testing without suffering any 

degradation in their power output. 

The initial design phase of the SNAP- 17 program, to develop a 25-watt strontium-90 

fueled thermoelectric generator and associated ground handling equipment, was 

completed, and plans have been formulated for continuation of this development 

program. Preliminary studies were completed for integrating Strontium-90-fueled 

generators into several long-lived satellite applications for the DOD and NASA. 

Design studies were completed by four contractors on various Sr-90 fueled thermoelectric power system concepts at a power level of 250 watts. 

In response to a request by NASA in January, 1964, the AEC is developing an isotopic 

power source for the NIMBUS-B advanced weather satellite. These SNAP-19 generators are to be fueled with plutonium-238, have a five-year design lifetime, and 

and electrical output of 30 watts. 

ery to Goddard Space Flight Center by early 1965. A study was performed for the 

Weather Bureau's National Satellite Center to determine the suitability of using 

SNAP- 19 on the advanced TIROS Operational Satellite System (TOSS). 

The first fueled generator is scheduled for delivA system integration and design study was completed in September by two contractors for a 40-50 watt Plutonium-238-fueled power supply for the NASA's SURVEYOR 

Lunar Roving Vehicle. 

program planning for the SURVEYOR Program. 

This information has been provided to NASA in support of 

SNAP Reactor Units 

SNAP-8--The SNAP-8 Experimental Reactor (S8ER), the first power reactor of the 

SNAP-8 series, had by the end of August accumulated more than 2,000 hours of 

continuous operation at full design power conditions of 600 thermal kilowatts and 

1,3000 F. coolant outlet temperature. The S8ER has subsequently been operated 

under various test conditions; all tests have confirmed the adequacy of the SNAP-8 

reactor design for 450 kilowatts of heat output. 

0 

Another reactor of the SNAP-8 generation, the SNAP -8 Developmental Reactor 

Mockup (S8DRM-1), is a flight-design reactor and shield assembly containing unenriched "dummy" fuel elements. This device was built to check the operation of 

the various components, as a complete system, under conditions closely simulating 

64 
the space environment. 

reliability testing during the year, and started long-term test operation in a vacuum 

and at high temperature. 

The S8DRM- 1 completed shock and vibration and startup 

SNAP-10A --In the Spring of 1964 the Joint Committee on Atomic Energy authorized 

reinstatement of the SNAP-10A flight test. 

development and detailed planning for a 1965 flight demonstration continued. 

Throughout the balance of the year 

A mockup SNAP- 10A flight system completed a continuous 90 -day endurance 

ground test operation early in 1964. The test unit used electrical heaters to simulate 

heat which in the flight system would be produced by the nuclear reactor. 

nuclear-heated test of a complete SNAP-10A flight qualified system is scheduled to 

begin in January 1965. Testing will be directed toward obtaining performance information for at least 90 days of continuous operation. A second non-nuclear test was 

initiated in December. This test differs primarily in that it uses completely flightqualified hardware. 

The first 

SNAP Svstems Improvement 

Mercury Rankine Power Conversion - An early flight-design power generator 

(CRU-IVM), currently used as a workhorse test machine, accumulated 6,295 hours 

of steady- state operation at design conditions. 

so that internal components such as bearings, turbine wheels, etc., can be examined. 

The machine is being disassembled 

Over 7,500 hours have been accumulated on the current flight-design version (CRU-V) 

of the power generator. 

was 2,560 hours, and the longest continuous run, accomplished on the same machine, 

was 2, 344 hours. 

which caused a seizure of the turbine bearing and terminated the continuous run. 

The most time accumulated on one machine (CRU-V-IA) 

Failure of the test rig superheater precipitated a series of events 

Total accumulated operating time on CRU machinery since September 1962, when the 

CRU-IVM type was first tested, is now more than 15,500 hours (almost two years). 

Other SNAP Systems Improvements--Operation of a dummy (non-fueled, electrically 

heated) SNAP- 10A/2-class reactor mockup was started in 1964. This operation will 

demonstrate the unit's capability to operate in the thermal and vacuum environment 

required to produce about 125 thermal kilowatts at about 1, 200° F. Development of 

advanced thermoelectric elements of the SNAP-1OA type proceeded to the point of 

selection of final module design for 1, 300° F. operation. 

Safety Tests of Aerospace Nuclear Systems--Two major safety tests were carried 

out in 1964 on SNAP systems. The first was conducted inApril to determine the 

consequences of an accidental nuclear excursion with a SNAP-10A reactor. Such an 

accident could be induced by the inadvertent water immersion of the reactor if a 

launch abort should occur in such a way that the reactor were thrown into the waters 

offshore of the launch pad or into the deluge water flume or catch basin. 

destroyed itself, as expected, and the fission product release and radiation levels 

were found to be very low. 

The reactor 

Another safety test involved launching of an inert isotopic thermoelectric generator 

from the NASA Wallops Island Range in October. 

flight demonstration (RFD-2) was to demonstrate that the generator, similar to one 

The purpose of this re-entry 

65 
to be used on the NIMBUS-B satellite, would disassemble during re-entry so that the 

Plutonium-238 fuel could burn up and disperse safely in the upper atmosphere. 

Although data has not yet been fully analyzed, preliminary results indicate the 

generator disassembled as predicted and that the fuel encapsulating material burned 

through as predicted. 

SNAP-50--During 1964, a reference design of the SNAP-5O/SPUR high temperature 

refractory-metal power plant was continued in order to provide realistic de sign 

considerations for the power plant and its components. 

ment program concentrated on selected key components of the reactor core, the 

reactor reflector and drive system, the turbo-alternator, the boiler, system pumps, 

advanced materials, and instrumentation and controls. 

SNAP-50/SPUR program accomplishments was operation of a 5-megawatt liquidmetal heat transfer system which transfers heat from lithium in a columbium (with 

one per cent zirconium) loop to sodium-potassium in a stainless steel loop. This 

system, using an electrical heater to simulate the reactor, completed a 10,000-hour 

test at design temperatures of 2,000' F. Also in 1964, several large liquid-metal 

loops for testing power conversion subcomponents were fabricated and testing was 

begun on stainless steel models of a multi-tube boiler and a liquid-metal-cooled 

generator. 

The experimental developOne of 1964's more significant 

ROVER PROGRAM 

The year 1964was one of major progress in the nuclear rocket program. 

February 13, a KIWI-B4D cold-flow reactor, containing no fissionable material and 

therefore producing no power, was tested. This reactor is a Los Alamos Scientific 

Laboratory re -de sign of the KIWI-B4A reactor that had been damaged by flow-induced 

vibrations in a November 1962 power test. No evidence of the damaging core vibrations was encountered in the cold-flow run, and the overall design and operation of 

the B4D were excellent. 

On 

On May 13, a major ROVER program milestone was achieved when the KIWI-B4D 

reactor was tested at power and temperature conditions that met or exceeded all 

planned test conditions except for duration of operating time at the power plateau 

which was less than planned. 

a hydrogen leak in the jet nozzle. 

to provide a significant proof-test of the structural integrity of the reactor, as 

well as many other reactor features. 

The reduction in operating time was necessitated by 

Sufficient time at power was achieved, however, 

The KIWI-B4E, the eighth and final nuclear rocket reactor to be fabricated and 

tested in the KIWI phase of the ROVER program, was power tested on August 28. 

The test ran at planned reactor power and temperature for more than eight minutes, 

the maximum time possible with the available liquid hydrogen propellant supply. 

On September 10 the B4E reactor underwent an unprecendented "re-start" test and 

operated smoothly for approximately 2.5 minutes near design power. 

actor's performance was excellent. 

the KIWI project with the exception of the Transient Nuclear Test, a safety test yet 

to be conducted. 

nuclear rocket efforts on design, applied research, and fabrication work under the 

advanced graphite reactor technology program known as PHOEBUS. 

Again the reThe analysis of data from this test will complete 

The Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory will then concentrate its 

66 
During March and April, the first experiment in the NRX (NERVA Reactor Experimental) test program was successfully conducted on the NRX-A1 cold flow reactor, 

with all test objectives being met. 

adaptations of the KIWI reactor for application to the NERVA (Nuclear Engine for 

Rocket Vehicle Application) nuclear rocket engine. On September 24, the second 

experiment in the NRX test program was successfully run on the NRX-A2 reactor. 

This first power operation of a NERVA nuclear rocket reactor lasted for more than 

six minutes at levels ranging from 50 per cent to near-full design power. 

October 15, the NRX-A2 reactor was restarted and operated in a stable and reliable 

manner for 20 minutes. 

The NRX reactors are an industrial team's 

On 

Throughout 1964, work continued on developing major non-nuclear components for 

the experimental, ground-based nuclear -rocket engine; on evaluating how these 

components will function in the heat and radiation environment of the reactor; and 

on examining the operation of the reactor and non-nunclear components as an engine 

system. As presently conceived, the NERVA engine will stand 22 feet high from the 

top flange to the exhaust exit of the jet nozzle, with the reactor to be located in the 

central portion. 

SATELLITE-BASED DETECTION OF NUCLEAR EXPLOSIONS IN SPACE 

In support of the Department of Defense, the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory and 

Sandia Corporation are cooperatively developing instrumentation for the ATLASAGENA-launched satellites for detection of nuclear explosions in space. Satellite - 

borne radiation detectors for neutrons, gamma rays and X-rays, and the associated 

electronic logics, have been developed and fabricated by the two laboratories. 

The first pair of AEC-instrumented VELA satellites were successfully placed in 

orbit by a single ATLAS-AGENA launch in mid-October 1963. 

The instrumentation systems continue to perform essentially as planned, and have 

demonstrated the feasibility of satellite detection systems. 

orbit, they have accumulated valuable operational and background radiation infor - 

mation. 

detection concepts. 

(See 1963 report. ) 

After 14 months in 

No unexpected backgrounds have been observed that would nullify the basic 

A second ATLAS-AGENA launch was successful in mid-July 1964, placing two more 

AEC-instrumented satellites in orbits similar to the first two, making a total of 

four R&D detection spacecraft now in orbit and functioning. The two new spacecraft 

have essentially the same detection systems as the first two, plus new detectors 

for measuring "solar wind" proton fluxes, low energy solar X-ray fluxes, and the 

characteristics of plasma clouds observed by the first pair of spacecraft. 

The currently authorized program contains a third launch in 1965 for placing two 

additional satellites into orbit. 

being modified on the basis of information obtained from the first two launches, and 

some new detection concepts will be explored. 

The detection systems for the third launch are 

In addition to the currently authorized ATLAS-AGENA launchings, AEC-developed 

instrumentation systems are being included on other space launchings to measure 

background radiation at various altitudes above the earth. 

67 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE 

INTRODUCTION 

CHAPTER 

VI 

In 1964, international cooperation in the outer space field kept pace with expanding 

outer space technology. On July 24, 1964, 19 nations joined together to conclude 

Interim Arrangements for a Global Commercial Communications Satellite System. 

In satellite meteorology, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) pushed 

ahead with its plans for a world weather system. 

As a result of bilateral discussions between the United States and the Soviet Union, 

final agreement was reached for the exchange of conventional and satellite weather 

data, when available from both sides, over a special communications link between 

Moscow and Washington. 

of NASA and the Academy of Sciences of the U. S. S. R. were recorded in a Second 

Memorandum of Understanding to Implement the Bilateral Space Agreement of 

June 8, 1962. 

biology and medicine, although no agreement was reached on the means of carrying 

out this project. 

The results of these discussions between representatives 

Discussions continued on the preparation of a joint review of space 

A number of international bilateral governmental and inter-agency agreements, involving tracking stations or scientific experiments, were initiated or renegotiated. 

Ranking well with the numerous spectacular events of the year was the relay of television pictures of the Olympic games held in Tokyo in October to the United States 

and Europe by two satellites of different design and orbital characteristics. 

Films and still pictures, of the successful RANGER VII flight, which were provided 

by NASA were shown to large and interested scientific and lay audiences abroad by 

the Department's 16 scientific attaches. 

These developments were matched by progress in cooperative activities through the 

U. N. Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space. 

its activities in the scientific and technical area, and gave detailed attention to 

drafts of international agreements on assistance to and return of astronauts and 

space vehicles and on liability for damage caused by objects launched into outer 

space. 

The Committee increased 

ACTIVITIES WITHIN THE UNITED NATIONS 

On December 13, 1963, the Eighteenth General Assembly unanimously adopted 

resolution 1963 (XVIII) which made specific recommendations on the work of the 

U. N. Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space for this year. 

The Scientific and Technical Subcommittee of the U. N. Outer Space Committee, 

which met in Geneva from May 22 through June 5, agreed upon a number of 

69 
recommendations for consideration by the full Committee including the following: 

a. 

b. 

C. 

d. 

e. 

publication every two years of reviews on national and cooperative 

international space activities and on activities and resources of the 

United Nations, the specialized agencies and other competent inter - 

national bodies in relating to the peaceful uses of outer space. 

establishment of a clearing house within the United Nations Secretariat 

of information on education and training in order to foster the growth 

of cooperative space arrangements and the spread of scientific and 

technical knowledge. 

compilation by the Secretariat of information on international conferences and symposia in order to keep Member States periodically 

info rmed . 

sponsorship by the United Nations of the first international sounding 

rocket facility, the Thumba International Equatorial Sounding Rocket 

Launching Facility in India. 

endorsement of the concept that Member States undertaking experiments 

in outer space should give full consideration to the problem of potentially 

harmful effects, and should, where they consider it appropriate, seek a 

scientific analysis of the qualitative and quantitative aspects of those 

experiments. 

In addition, the Subcommittee recommended that the Secretary General be asked to 

consider, in the light of existing material, the usefulness and possibilities of publication by the United Nations of new material to ensure popular understanding of the 

purposes and potentialities of space activities, possibly in a series of pamphlets or 

a handbook. 

The Legal Subcommittee met from March 9 to 26 in Geneva and again from October 5 

to 23 in New York to frame international agreements on assistance to and return of 

astronauts and space vehicles and on liability for damage caused by objects launched 

into outer space. On the question of liability, there was a full and useful exchange 

of views. The United States presented a draft text at the March session and a revision of that text at the resumed session in October. Other texts were presented by 

Hungary and Belgium. On assistance and return, there was greater progress, 

based in part on the greater simplicity of the subject. The United States and the 

Soviet Union presented full texts, and Australia and Canada presented joint texts on 

the substantive articles. 

The resumed session of the Legal Subcommittee was immediately followed by the 

meeting of the full Committee in New York from October 26 through November 6. 

The Committee noted with satisfaction that substantial progress was made in the 

Legal Subcommittee, although there was insufficient time to draft the international 

agreements, and decided that work on the two agreements should be resumed as soon 

as possible. The Committee also adopted the recommendations of its Scientific and 

Technical Subcommittee, and invited it to study the possibility of establishing a civil 

worldwide satellite system on a non-discriminatory basis. 

mittee considered the usefulness of holding a conference in 1967 under u. N. 

auspices on the exploration and peaceful uses of outer space. 

In addition, the ComThe Soviet Union and 

70 
a number of other Members supported such a conference. The United States opposed 

it on the grounds that a conference would be expensive and unnecessary in view of the 

large number of conferences on outer space already being held in other international 

bodies. Instead, the U. S. Delegation suggested a meeting in 1967 of the U. N. Outer 

Space Committee to commemorate the passage of the first decade of space exploration. In the end, the Committee decided to set up a working group of the whole to 

examine the desirability, organization and objectives of an international conference 

or meeting to be held in 1967 on the exploration and peaceful uses of outer space. 

The Committee also commended the WMO for the further development of the world 

weather watch concept. In addition, acting on a recommendation of the Scientific and 

Technical Subcommittee, the Committee commended the ITU for its contribution to 

the successful conduct of the Extraordinary Administrative Radio Conference held in 

October - November 1963. This Conference allocated frequency bands for space 

communication, telemetry, radio astronomy, meteorology, navigation satellites, 

aeronautical amateur services and scientific research. 

During the Committee session, the United States in association with other signatories, 

submitted a progress report to the Committee concerning the Interim Arrangements 

Establishing a Global Commercial Communications Satellite System. 

Union and several other Eastern European countries criticized the Arrangements as 

being discriminatory and contrary to United Nations resolutions. The United States 

and other countries observed that the Arrangements were in fact fully consistent with 

United Nations resolutions on outer space. They noted that the agreements remain 

open to adherence by all states which are members of the ITU and that access to the 

proposed Commercial Communications Satellite System would become available on a 

non-discriminatory basis to all. 

The Soviet 

BILATERAL AGREEMENTS AND OTHER INTERNATIONAL ACTIVITIES 

During 1964 two actions were completed under the Bilateral Space Agreement of 1962 

between NASA and the Academy of Sciences of the U.S.S.R., i. e.: one under the cooperative space project involving the experimental relay of communications via the 

ECHO satellite and the other under the cooperative project for the exchange of 

weather data from meteorological satellites. 

United Kingdom, experimental communications were passed from the United States 

to the U. S. S. R. via the ECHO I1 passive satellite, the space relay being from 

Jodrell Bank in England to the Zimienki Observatory near Gorki. 

technical aspects of these experimental communications have been exchanged, along 

with visual observations of the inflation of the ECHO II balloon during its post-launch 

phase which were made by the U. S. S. R. A direct communication link between the Soviet Hydro-Meteorological Service in Moscow and the U. S. 

Weather Bureau in Washington was established in late September and, commencing 

in late October, is being tested through the exchange of weather data acquired by 

conventional means. 

satellite data and will be used for this purpose as soon as Soviet data from meteorologic a1 sat ellit e s become s available. 

In January, with the cooperation of the 

Studies of the 

at NASA's request. 

This circuit has been established for the mutual exchange of 

In addition, a senior NASA official met with a senior representative of the Academy 

of Sciences of the U. S. S. R. in the spring and fall of this year to discuss further 

steps in the implementation of the agreed cooperative space projects involving the 

coordinated launching of meteorological satellites, the exchange of data from these 

satellites and the program to map the magnetic field of the earth by means of 

71 
coordinated launchings of geomagnetic satellites and related ground observations. 

These meetings resulted in a Second Memorandum of Understanding to implement the 

1962 agreement; this memorandum specifies further details of these projects and was 

approved by NASA and the Soviet Academy on November 5, 1964. During these meetings there were initial discussions of an additional project looking to the mutual exchange and publication of information in the field of space biology and medicine. 

Agreement has not yet been reached on the details of this new project. 

At the request of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration negotiations were 

commenced by the Department of State with the British in 1959 for the establishment 

of a data acquisition and communications station to be located either in Tanganyika or 

Zanzibar. The station was to be used for the Mercury and Gemini flight series. 

Prior to the exchange of notes signed on October 14, 1960 in London permitting the 

establishment of the station on Zanzibar, leases were signed on June 3, 1960 by 

NASA with the Government of the Sultan of Zanzibar providing for two station sites 

at Tunguu and Chwaka. The original agreement ran for three years, until April 30, 

1963, with an option for an extension for an additional three year period to be negotiated on a year-to-year basis. 

After NASA indicated its desire to extend its option, on January 28, 1963, the 

Department undertook negotiations with the Zanzibar authorities which agreed to an 

extension only through December 31, 1963. This period being unsatisfactory to 

NASA to meet its Gemini requirements, the Department pressed for a continuation 

for an extension for the full period. 

vised that the Sultan was agreeable to negotiate an extension of the agreement as 

requested. 

overthrown and a new regime took over. 

extremist elements which charged that the tracking station was a "missile base", the 

United States was subsequently asked to dismantle and remove the station. 

of the equipment was completed on April 28, 1962, two days before the deadline set 

by the Government of Zanzibar. 

sentatives stationed at Zanzibar at the time that all American personnel and dependents were evacuated without injury or loss of life. 

On January 11, 1964 the Department was adThe day after this advice was received, the Government of Zanzibar was 

Due to an element of hysteria created by 

Removal 

It is to the credit of the U.S. diplomatic repreIronically, First Vice President Karume, speaking at the opening of a new AfroShirazi party branch office, at Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, on September 5, 1964, 

cautioned the people against believing false stories that are spread about certain 

nations. 

one. 'I He made special mention of the United States and said he knew that the 

Project MERCURY tracking station formally based in Zanzibar was for peaceful and 

scientific purposes only. 

He said, "We are friendly to all nations and have no ill will towards anyDuring mid-1964 arrangements were made with the Government of the Malagasy 

Republic for the installation near Tananarive of a tracking facility which will assist 

in tracking the GEMINI flights scheduled for early 1965. 

clude a minitrack facility for support of scientific satellites as well as automatic 

picture receiving equipment capable of receiving photographs from the weather 

satellites as they pass near Madagascar. 

to a small, mobile facility which has been moved from its earlier location near 

Majunga. 

The station will also inThese several facilities are being added 

72 
Arrangements have been made with the Government of Australia for the installation 

of a facility to be used for communication at lunar distances in the APOLLO program. 

At the request of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory in Massachusetts an 

agreement in principle was reached with the Government of Ethiopia to locate a 

Baker Nunn optical tracking camera in that country. For technical reasons this 

camera will be relocated from Shiraz, Iran. 

Negotiations were continued with the Government of Mexico for the extension of the 

agreement permitting NASA to maintain a tracking and communications facility for 

both the manned and unmanned flight series at Guaymas, Mexico. 

agreement established by exchange of notes, signed at Mexico on April 12, 1960, 

was extended by exchange of notes in May, 1963. 

was reached continuing the agreement until November 30, 1964. 

ment was reached for a further extension until January 31, 1965. 

that the newly elected Government of Mexico will concur in a further extension to 

the agreement. 

The original 

On an interim basis, agreement 

Subsequent agreeIt is anticipated 

The Department negotiated on May 21, 1964 an extension until June 30, 1966 of the 

agreement with the Nigerian Government permitting the continued operation of the 

NASA tracking station at Kano, Nigeria. 

the station both for manned space flights and for scientific satellite tracking. 

The new agreement provides for the use of 

In further support of the NASA APOLLO program the Department obtained an agreement for the location of a second deep space instrumentation facility to be located 

near Madrid. 

In addition to the bilateral governmental agreements, the Department lent its 

assistance to the negotiation of bilateral agency agreements between NASA and 

foreign entities in outer space projects involving satellites, sounding rockets, experiments in communication via satellite and ground station observations of U. S. 

satellites. 

GLOBAL COMMUNICATIONS VIA SATELLITES 

An important objective of the Communications Satellite Act of 1962 was realized on 

August 20, 1964 when the following countries signed the Agreement Establishing 

Interim Arrangements for a Global Commercial Communications Satellite System: 

Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Italy, Japan, Spain, the Netherlands, the 

United Kingdom, the United States of America and Vatican City. Subsequently, 

Norway, Switzerland, the Federal Republic of Germany, Sweden, Belgium, Ireland, 

Portugal and Israel signed, bringing the total signatory countries to date to 19. 

Most of the countries who have signed to date have designated national communications entities to participate in the ownership and operation of the system. 

entities are in most cases governmental, however, in some cases they are of a 

private nature. 

for the United States of America. 

These 

The Communications Satellite Corporation is the designated entity 

Representatives of these entities, except in the case of Italy where an entity has not 

yet been designated, have signed a ttSpecial Agreement" which is concerned with 

such matters as financial contributions, design and development of the global system, 

73 
approval of the locations and technical capabilities of earth stations, rates and 

charges and management of the enterprise. 

in the "Treaties and Other International Acts Series" (TIAS 5646) which is available 

for sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U. S. Government Printing Office, 

Washington, D. C. 

Both agreements have been published 

The first agreement establishes an Interim Communications Satellite Committee to 

give effect to the international cooperation envisaged in the Communications Satellite 

Act of 1962. 

1964, and after that by accession, by any state which is a member of the 

International Telecommunications Union. 

The agreement is open for signature for six months from August 20, 

The agreement names the Communications Satellite Corporation, which was established pursuant to the Communications Satellite Act of 1962, as manager of the proposed global commercial system. A more detailed statement of these arrangements 

is contained in the Annual Report of the President on Communications Satellites 

which is required by the Communications Satellite Act of 1962. 

INTERNATIONAL TELEVISION VIA SATELLITE 

When the Secretary of State was in Japan in January 1964 he was asked by the 

Japanese Government if he would use his good offices in facilitating the transmission 

of television pictures of the 1964 Olympic games to be held in Tokyo via satellite to 

the United States. The Department, being aware of obvious benefits from a foreign 

relations aspect as well as the extension of the technological and scientific experiments which had been carried on in previous years, immediately began an exploration of the practicability of the suggestion. 

At the Department's suggestion the Communications Satellite Corporation, acting on 

behalf of the Department of State and other interested government and commercial 

entities, became the coordinating agent and operating entity for the United States. 

The Corporation in making the necessary technical and financial arrangements, on 

its own initiative, went one step further and arranged for the extension of the television transmission via satellite to Canada and Europe. 

After the transmission facilities in Japan and the receiving facilities at Point Mugu 

had been modified, the President and the Secretary of State together with the 

Japanese Foreign Minister and the Japanese Minister of Communications inaugurated 

the opening of the facility on October 7, 1964, by a successful transmission of a 15- 

minute television program which originated in Tokyo. 

President and the Secretary of State were previously recorded on video tape and 

flown to Tokyo for the inaugural transmission since no transmission facilities to 

Japan were available at that time. 

The statements of the 

Technical arrangements for the television transmission via satellite were indeed 

unique. The video signal which originated in Japan was relayed via the SYNCOM III 

satellite to an existing U. S. Government-owned facility at Point Mugu, Calif. Because the satellite was not originally designed for television transmission, the combined transmission of the video and the audio via the satellite would have reduced the 

size of the video image. 

the trans-Pacific cable. 

the audio the hour long program was relayed via microwave relay to Montreal where 

it was transcribed on video tape and then flown to Europe for viewing by the Western 

Therefore, the audio transmission was accomplished via 

From Point Mugu where the video was synchronized with 

74 
European countries and to a limited extent countries in Eastern Europe. 

Television viewers in the United States were able to see the opening ceremonies of 

the Olympic games broadcast live from Tokyo. 

arrangements which were concluded well in advance of the known availability of a 

usable satellite for the purpose, U.S. viewers saw the Olympics via video tape which 

was flown to the United States from Japan. 

However, due to prior commercial 

Shortly after the Olympics started, representatives of the European Broadcasting 

Union arranged to prepare a condensed 15-minute version of the hour long program, 

relayed to Montreal for almost "real time" transmission to Europe. The condensed 

package was then relayed via microwave to the AT&T earth terminal at Andover, 

Maine, which in turn relayed it via the RELAY I satellite to Europe where it was 

viewed the same day during I1primetl evening hours the same day the events took 

place. The hour long program was seen at good time but later in the evening of the 

same day Tokyo time. 

The net benefit to the United States in the conduct of this unique breakthrough in very 

long distance international communication was noteworthy in that it added further 

credibility to the feasibility of global communication via satellites. 

quality both in the United States and in Europe was excellent and the interest of the 

viewing audience both in North America and Europe was widespread and enthusiastic. 

The picture 

The technical arrangements made prior to and the actual transmission of the television pictures from Tokyo were accomplished at no cost to the government. 

75 
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION 

INTRODUCTION 

The National Science Foundation has as its chief 

CHAPTER 

VI1 

responsibilities the stimulation 

and support of basic research, promoting improved education in the sciences, 

and facilitating exchange of scientific information. 

by the Foundation is carried on at colleges and universities and nonprofit research 

institutions in the United States. 

Most of the work sponsored 

The Foundation also has special responsibilities with respect to certain national 

laboratories, which it funds and sponsors, and certain national research programs. 

It is in the latter areas particularly that the Foundation's efforts are identified 

with those of the overall national space effort. 

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (West Virginia) 

The 300-foot diameter telescope, the world's largest moveable parabolic radio 

antenna, was used for more than 1200 hours during 1964 on a sky strip survey, 

with 4 receivers operating simultaneously. 

made and normal galaxies were studied. 

line receiver, with magnetic tape output, was installed. H I radiation from 

discrete sources was measured, and the program of polarization measurements 

of external galaxies was resumed. 

Observation of H I1 regions was also 

A 100 channel auto correlation hydrogenThe construction schedule for the 140-foot precision radio telescope has been 

maintained, with all steel and aluminum in place at the end of the year. 

of the electronics in the early months of 1965 will be the next step toward full 

operation by the middle of the year. 

Addition 

The second 85-foot dish antenna for the two-element radio interferometer, 

completed in June, was used at a wavelength of 11 centimeters both as a separate 

instrument and, with the first element, in interferometer form. 

Final engineering studies are nearing completion for a 36-foot diameter, high 

precision radio telescope to operate at millimeter wavelengths and to be located 

at a high, dry site in the southwestern part of the country, perhaps at the Kitt 

Peak National Observatory. 

Kitt Peak National Observatorv (Arizona) 

The 84-inch stellar telescope was completed and available for staff and visitor use 

after September 15. Already equipped for direct photography and photoelectric 

photometry, spectrographs are under construction both for low dispersion work 

with faint objects and at higher dispersion for the brighter stars. 

36-inch reflector is being built to fill the need for observing time at moderate 

A second 

77 
aperture. 

telescopes when used for photoelectric work were constructed during the year. 

Automatic readout systems to increase the efficiency of these stellar 

The 60-inch solar telescope continued in demand for both daytime and night 

observations. 

properties in the sun's atmosphere. At night the telescope was used for lunar 

mapping and planetary photography, also for spectra at very high dispersion of 

bright stars. 

Solar work included studies of depth dependence of physical 

In the Space Division, AEROBEE rocket flights in April and June secured further 

spectra of the daytime airglow in the program of planetary atmosphere studies. 

To extend this work to other planets, a fine attitude control system for the 

AEROBEE rocket is being developed. It will be further adapted for work on 

stellar spectra from above the earth's atmosphere. An expedition to Mount 

Chacaltaya, Bolivia secured intensity and polarization measurements of the 

zodiacal light from an altitude of 17,600 feet. The 16-inch telescope used to 

test the remotely controlled telescope system was moved to the mountain and 

set up in the dome already prepared for the planned 50-inch remote control 

telescope. 

Plans for a 150-inch reflecting telescope at the Kitt Peak site moved ahead during 

the year. 

during 1965. 

The fused quartz blank for the telescope mirror will be acquired 

Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatorv (Chile) 

Inauguration of the access road to the mountain site late in 1963 and its completion in early 1964 permitted moving heavy equipment to the summit of Cerro 

Tololo to level its top for the planned 60-inch and 36-inch telescopes now under 

construction. During this work photoelectric observations with the 16-inch telescope were continued on the three-color photometry program for southern 

standard stars, and by visiting astronomers on two other researches requiring 

observations from the southern hemisphere. 

The E. 0. Hulburt Center for Space Research (Washington, D. C.) 

Continued support by NSF of the Hulburt Center at the U. S. Naval Research 

Laboratory has broadened the research team in rocket and satellite astronomy 

at this laboratory to include visiting university faculty members and graduate 

students. A university scientist was assisted in the development of cryogenic 

rocket-borne photometers to use in the study of infrared celestial radiation 

from point sources and extended objects. 

for rocket observations of possible interstellar absorption by hydrogen molecules. 

Another is preparing instrumentation 

STRATOSCOPE I1 Balloon-Borne Telescope 

The second scientific flight of this 36-inch telescope system was launched on 

November 26, 1963, and its outstandingly successful results announced in 1964. 

As in the first such flight (both were to about 80, 000 feet), an infrared spectroscope was used, this time to observe water vapor bands and other features in the 

atmospheres of six cool red giant stars as well as the spectrum of the moon, 

Jupiter and two hot stars. 

78 
In the STRATOSCOPE I1 project scientific ballooning has reached new capabilities for lifting heavy instruments above the greater part of the atmosphere. A 

ballooning test flight in the late spring of 1964 prepared for the added weight and 

ballast required for the first flight for direct photography with extended exposures 

on night sky objects. 

The International Years of the Quiet Sun (IQSY) 

The IQSY, one half of it occurring in 1964, is a coordinated effort to study the 

geophysical and interplanetary environment of the earth during the period of 

sunspot minimum. Federal coordinator for this national research program is 

the National Science Foundation. 

The program for the IQSY consists of projects in meteorology, geomagnetism, 

aurora, airglow, ionospheric physics, solar radio astronomy, solar activity, 

the interplanetary medium, cosmic rays, trapped particles, and aeronomy, 

In the field of meteorology, daily maps of the stratosphere up to the tenmillibar 

level are being produced through an objective analysis of available data by the 

U. S. Weather Bureau. The output of this computer program has also been used 

for predicting stratospheric warmings, first in the Arctic during the spring of 

1964 and second in the Antarctic in the fall. 

Ozone observations at a number of stations distributed in the Western Hemisphere 

from the North to the South Pole have been made on Regular Geophysical Days 

under the supervision of the Air Force Cambridge Research Laboratories. 

Water vapor sounding techniques for the high atmosphere are being improved 

under the developments at both Naval Research Laboratory and the U. S. Army 

Ballistic Research Laboratory. 

regions, combined with the ozone measurements, should provide important 

information relative to the energy balance of the upper atmosphere. 

Improved water vapor soundings in equatorial 

In the field of geomagnetism, the Coast and Geodetic Survey has established 

special stations for the study for the daily variation of the magnetic field on 

Midway, Koror, and Adak Islands in the Pacific Ocean. In addition, a computer 

facility has been established to facilitate rapid reduction and exchange of data 

among magnetic observatories throughout the world and correlation with data 

obtained from satellites; this project involves effective cooperation between the 

Coast and Geodetic Survey and Goddard Space Flight Center. Magnetic micropulsations are being observed and studied at a chain of stations from the Arctic 

to the Antarctic under the direction of the Central Radio Propagation Laboratory 

of the National Bureau of Standards; this program involves detection of 

pulsations in the range of 0.004 to 2 cycles per second, using magnetic tape 

for recordings instead of the former pen and ink charts. 

of observatories recording rapid variations of the magnetic field has made major 

progress in the coordination of observing techniques so as to increase the usefulness of the individual observations. 

A cooperative network 

Studies of the aurora have been heavily concentrated in chains of stations 

established by the Geophysical Institute of Alaska, involving all-sky cameras, 

scanning photometers and spectrographs, as well as radio studies of the 

79 
absorption of cosmic noise by the ionized particles in the aurora. 

University of California on the precipitation of electrons into the aurora zone, 

measured by balloon-borne equipment, is under way. Airglow measurements, 

specifically high quality coverage of the whole sky with well calibrated photometers, 

under a program of the Central Radio Propagation Laboratory, has been extended 

to Kitt Peak, Arizona, in addition to the home station at Fritz Peak, Colorado, 

under NSF support. 

A study by the 

Ionospheric studies have been in progress at a number of institutions. The 

Pennsylvania State University has made excellent progress in the construction 

of equipment for continuously monitoring profiles of electron density in the 

D-region of the ionosphere. 

profiles from the data being secured. 

chain of complementary stations for whistler studies. These studies of very low 

frequency phenomena are leading to increased knowledge of the magnetisphere, 

and the distribution of electrons along the magnetic field lines, uncovering a host 

of new phenomena at the boundaries of the earth's atmosphere. 

It is now possible to produce daily electron density 

Stanford and Dartmouth each operate a 

Radio studies of the sun are in process at the University of Michigan where equipment for study of solar bursts has been improved in sensitivity. 

University a large antenna array has been more sharply tuned to produce each 

day maps of the sun at radio wavelength of improved definition. 

At Stanford 

The solar flare patrol network reported through. the Central Radio Propagation 

Laboratory has provided information for the system of alerts operated by the 

World Warning Centers. 

identified. The flare patrol complex on Mt Haleakala, Hawaii, has been 

improved by the addition of equipment and the construction of an observatory dome, 

providing an important link in the coverage of solar activity from the middle of 

the Pacific. 

Astrophysical Observatory's satellite-tracking network have been supported to 

make possible the study of comet tails, which display changes presumed to be in 

response to solar activity. 

between the earth and moon during the World Geophysical Intervals is supported 

by an IQSY grant to Stanford University. 

Several periods of extreme solar quiet have been 

Modifications of the Baker -Nunn cameras of the Smithsonian 

Continued operation of radar probes of the space 

In the field of cosmic radiation, a chain of new, high counting rate, super neutron 

monitors has been established. The chain runs from Thule, Greenland, to Dallas, 

Texas, and includes stations in Antarctica. 

variations to be measured with higher statistical certainty, so that real events 

can be distinguished from random noise. The data from this chain of stations 

will lead to improved detail in the mapping of the progress of solar plasma 

through the interplanetary magnetic field into the earth's field. 

implemented by ten different organizations for a balloon-borne cosmic ray 

expedition to take measurements near the geomagnetic equator in India. 

geomagnetic field of the earth acts as a filter for removing the lower energy 

solar components, a separation which can be made most successfully during the 

IQSY. 

by the University of Minnesota. 

The high counting rate enables 

Plans are being 

The 

Balloon studies of cosmic rays in northern latitudes have been pursued 

80 
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE 

INTRODUCTION 

The Department of Commerce supports and makes use of the Nation's space program. 

The principal activities of the Department in space and aeronautics are conducted by 

the Weather Bureau, the Coast and Geodetic Survey, the National Bureau of 

Standards, and the Office of the Secretary. 

WEATHER BUREAU 

Responsibility for carrying out the space activities of the Weather Bureau is delegated to its National Weather Satellite Center in Suitland, Md. 

As 1964 opened, some 50 weather forecasting stations around the world were receiving cloud pictures directly from the recently launched weather satellite 

TIROS VIII. This experiment marked an historic first in direct utilization of a space 

satellite by operational field stations with relatively simple receiving sets. As the 

satellite passed overhead, each station could tune in to a broadcast from the Automatic Picture Transmission (APT) system and receive a television picture of the 

clouds and weather conditions covering an area 1000 miles square around the station. 

The experiment continued successfully until the end of April, when deterioration of 

the camera system aboard the satellite made the pictures unusable. 

The significant scientific advance which made this experiment possible is a special 

camera system which records a picture instantaneously aboard the satellite, then 

immediately broadcasts it much more slowly by television to enable ground stations 

to pick up the transmission with relatively inexpensive and compact equipment. 

hundreds of thousands of pictures heretofore obtained by the TIROS satellites were 

transmitted much more rapidly to three or four specialized Command and Data 

Acquisition stations with highly sophisticated ground equipment. The high speed 

transmission enables these specialized stations to acquire a large number of stored 

pictures from around the world, while the slow transmission of the APT system 

allows reception of only two or three pictures covering the general vicinity of the 

individual receiving stations. 

The 

5 

The TIROS VI11 experiment was in reality the first flight test of the APT system, 

which originally had been designed for the NIMBUS satellites. 

in the experiment included 12 major Weather Bureau forecast centers in the Lnited 

States, 22 U. S. Air Force and U. S. Navy stations mostly overseas (including 

Antarctica) and about 12 stations built or purchased by foreign countries. 

States distributed advance information on the system to all member nations of the 

World Meteorological Organization, a United Nations agency. 

Stations participating 

The United 

An APT camera was flown again in September on the NIMBUS I satellite with spectacular results. The pictures contained far more detail than did the TIROS VI11 APT 

pictures, and were again received and used at stations around the world. United 

81 
States east coast weather stations equipped with APT receivers tracked five different 

Atlantic hurricanes during the 1964 season. NIMBUS APT pictures received at the 

Weather Bureau's National Meteorological Center in Suitland, Md., were used by 

analysts of the Center to confirm or adjust routinely produced weather analyses. 

pictures were also used to prepare nephanalyses (schematic cloud maps) for transmission on national facsimile networks. 

The 

Single stations received as many as four NIMBUS APT pictures during one overhead. 

pass, each picture showing an area approximately 1000 miles square. Several APT 

picture sequences received by the Weather Bureau station at Suitland, Md., extended 

from the north coast of South America northward to eastern Canada. 

Other 1964 highlights of the Weather Bureau's space activities, to be briefly reported 

below, 

a. 

b. 

C. 

d. 

include : 

successful launch by NASA of the first NIMBUS satellite, and limited 

operational use of its data by the Weather Bureau. 

emergence of a clearly defined concept of the TIROS Operational 

Satellite (TOS) System, to be established in late 1965 or early 1966 

as the first implementation of the National Operational Meteorological 

Satellite System. 

continued support to meteorological operations by two conventional 

TIROS satellites, both of which operated excellently throughout the 

entire calendar year 1964. 

continued progress in satellite data research programs, and in development of new meteorological satellite sensors including particularly the 

successful balloon test flight of an infrared spectrometer. 

Launch of NIMBUS I 

NIMBUS I, the first flight model in a second generation of meteorological satellites, 

was successfully launched by NASA on August 28, 1964. It operated successfully 

until about September 22, when a mechanical malfunction in its solar paddles prevented proper absorption of solar radiation and cut power supply well below the minimum level required to operate the sensory and stabilization systems. 

1964, the NASA was still receiving sporadic radio signals from NIMBUS I. 

At the end of 

In addition to the APT pictures, NIMBUS I provided a large volume of data from its 

Advanced Vidicon Camera System and from the High Resolution Infrared Radiometer. 

The advanced vidicon pictures show far more detail than is contained in the standard 

TIROS television pictures, and the nearly 12,000 of them received are being archived 

for use by research meteorologists. The radiometer data were received in the form 

of pictures showing clouds, land forms, and oceans over the night side of the earth. 

The high quality of the radiation data points toward eventual operational use. 

its short operational lifetime, the NIMBUS can be considered a highly successful 

experiment from the meteorological point of view. 

Despite 

82 
The TIROS Operational Satellite System Concept 

The TIROS Operational Satellite (TOS) system is planned to fill the need for a 

relatively low-cost, fully operational weather satellite. The TOS system, based on 

proven TIROS technology, will use TIROS "wheel" satellites of a design to be tested 

with the launch of the next TIROS in the first quarter of 1965. 

nearly polar and sun- synchronous, to provide worldwide photographic and infrared 

coverage of the earth and its atmosphere at the same local time each day. 

The orbits will be 

The distinctive feature of the "wheel" TIROS is that in orbit the spin-axis will be 

perpendicular to the plane of the orbit so, in effect, TOS will "roll" along the orbit 

on its edge. With its two cameras mounted 180° apart and looking out through the 

rim, instead of through the base plate as in the standard TIROS, the earth will come 

into view directly below each camera once each revolution. The camera will thus be 

able to view the earth from all parts of its orbit in contrast to the limited viewing 

capability of the present space -oriented TIROS. 

The TOS system initially will consist of two types of satellites in orbit simultaneously. 

One will be equipped with two advanced vidicon cameras with associated tape recorders to store pictures for later high speed transmission to two specialized Weather 

Bureau Command and Data Acquisition stations. 

cameras to provide direct transmission to all ground stations having suitable APT 

receivers. 

vidicon satellite. 

The other will have two APT 

A heat balance radiation sensing system is also included for the advanced 

Launch of the first TOS is planned for late 1965 or early 1966. 

The planned launch of the next TIROS R&D satellite will provide tests of the wheel 

satellite configuration, the attitude and camera control mechanisms, and the over - 

all feasibility of the orbital system. This satellite is designed for a minimum lifetime of six months. 

The TOS configuration and system includes all features agreed upon by the NASA, 

the Department of Defense and the Department of Commerce. 

TIROS VI1 and TIROS VI11 Operate Continuously Through 1964 

On December 31, 1964 TIROS VI1 completed 561 days of continuously successful 

operation since its launch into orbit on June 19, 1963. Both its vidicon cameras 

and its medium resolution radiometer were still providing excellent data with no 

deterioration in quality. The previous record holder, TIROS VI, operated for 388 

days before failing, TIROS VIIJ., launched December 21, 1963, had accumulated 376 

days of operation by year's end, with its single recording vidicon camera still performing as well as on the day of launch. 

dependability of the TIROS spacecraft which, with some modifications, will be used 

as the basic satellite for the new TOS system. 

These records of operation confirm the 

During 1964 the pictures from TIROS VI1 and VI11 were used for direct support to a 

number of operational and research projects. 

to take cloud pictures of specific areas at specific times to furnish the weather information requested. 

The satellites were often programmed 

One of the main operational projects was a tropical storm watch. 

and briefly NIMBUS I, were programmed to maintain surveillance over areas of 

Both of the TIROS, 

83 
potential tropical storm formation. 

tracked from day to day, and special meteorologically-coded advisories were sent 

to the weather services of all countries likely to be affected. 

were instrumental in initially detecting ten of the forty named storms that occurred 

in the tropics during 1964. 

When such storms were discovered they were 

Weather satellites 

Other special projects, operations, and organizations that received direct support 

during the year included: 

a. 

b. 

C. 

d. 

e. 

f. 

gh. 

i. 

j. 

k. 

1. 

Project GEMINI launches from Cape Kennedy. 

SATURN-APOLLO launch from Cape Kennedy. 

RANGER launch from Cape Kennedy 

NASA Communications Satellite launch. 

Range 

The Galapagos Expedition. 

The International Indian Ocean Expedition. 

Trade Wind Zone Oceanography Program, Bureau of Commercial 

Fi she rie s. 

Ice Reconnaissance 

Desert Strike (Department of Defense). 

Mesoscale Meteorological Studies in the San Francisco Bay Region. 

Special USAF Operational Support. 

support - Eastern Test Range and Western Test Range. 

m. Anti-Locust Re search Centre (London, Rome, Asmara). 

n. Navy Ordnance Test Station, China Lake, California. 

Re search and Development Programs 

The Meteorological Satellite Laboratory is the research arm of NWSC. 

studies, research investigations, and experimental programs, it seeks ( 1) to extract 

the maximum possible weather information from satellite observations and (2) to 

find new ways to obtain information by satellite which will contribute toward improving the various services provided by the Weather Bureau. 

By analytical 

During the year, the Meteorological Satellite Laboratory continued its work on the 

analysis of cloud pictures and infrared data received from the weather satellites. 

These data were used to study storms and atmospheric motions from the vantage 

point of space, and for extracting new information that can lead to greater understanding of atmospheric processes and improved weather forecasting. Among the 

more than sixty individual projects in the Laboratory are several of particular interest; 

a4 
a. 

b. 

C. 

d. 

e. 

a satellite infrared spectrometer de signed to measure the vertical 

temperature structure of the middle and high atmosphere has been 

successfully tested on a balloon flying at 100,000 feet. 

took place on September 11 at Palestine, Texas. 

recovered in working condition and the measurements obtained indicate 

that the spectrometer will work on-board a satellite. 

satellite hardware is now beginning. 

The test 

The instrument was 

Construction of 

methods are being developed for improving numerical weather prediction 

models by using satellite data. Several tests have been made and results 

are promising. 

a method was developed for identifying the stage of development of tropical 

storms and maximum wind speeds in hurricanes by examination of the 

satellite photographs. 

season with encouraging results. 

The method was tested during the 1964 hurricane 

a special experiment has been designed to measure cloud heights from 

satellites by measuring atmospheric absorption of sunlight reflected 

from the tops of clouds. Spectral absorption in the oxygen "A" band at 

76212 is being studied in support of this program. 

have already been made from aircraft using a specially designed 3.8 lb. 

hand-held spectrograph. 

aboard the first manned GEMINI flight prior to its use in weather 

satellites. 

Test measurements 

This instrument will undergo additional testing 

Public Law 480 counterpart funds are being used to support research 

with meteorological satellite data at the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, 

Israel. 

satellite data obtained over the Middle East. 

The re search will provide interpretation of meteorological 

Other Progress in 1964 

The Weather Bureau, in cooperation with the World Meteorological Organization 

and the United State s-Japan Cooperative Science Program committee, arranged 

and furnished instructors for study-sessions and a workshop on satellite meteorology 

held in Tokyo from November 27 to December 15. Nearly 60 scientists from 15 

nations attended these sessions. 

The NWSC' s Spaceflight Meteorology Group continued to provide climatological and 

forecast-development studies for many facets of the NASA's GEMINI and APOLLO 

missions. NASA Manned Spacecraft Center also received support in the form of 

operational forecasts needed for tests of aerospace systems and components. The 

test areas were in Texas and over the Gulf of Mexico. The Group also assumed 

new responsibility during the year for providing similar services pertinent to 

planning for the design, construction and maintenance of NASA facilities at Cape 

Kennedy and Merritt Island, Florida. 

The Spaceflight Meteorology Group also was assigned responsibility for Weather 

Bureau support to the NASA Mississippi Test Facility, which included an expanded 

program in development of techniques for forecasting sound propagation conditions 

during rocket engine tests at the site. 

85 
The concept of a "World Weather Watch!', which was developed in April 1963 during 

The Quadrennial Congress of the World Meteorological Organization, called for an 

intensive program to strengthen meteorological services and re search with particular emphasis on artificial satellites, education, and training. Among its recommendations was the establishment of World Weather Centers in Washington and Moscow. 

On October 25, 1964 a direct meteorological data link between these two cities was 

placed in operation as the first step toward implementing the World Weather Centers. 

Formal de signation of the Weather Bureau's Suitland, Maryland, complex as "World 

Weather Center, Washington" followed on December 31, 1964. 

COAST AND GEODETIC SURVEY 

Geodetic Activities 

The efforts conducted on Satellite Geodesy has, during this fiscal year, been almost 

exclusively concentrated in support of the geometric satellite triangulation method 

as part of the now established National Geodetic Satellite Program. 

Geodetic Survey is developing the theoretical and practical tools for executing a 

worldwide 

be launched during the first part of the calendar year 1966 by NASA. 

The Coast and 

geodetic satellite triangulation with an ECHO-type satellite which is to 

A mathematical model of the contemplated 36-station net was derived and successfully tested. The corresponding electronic computer program will allow the study 

of the propagation of various observational errors, thus supporting the planning 

and logistics for an optimum field operation. Numerous auxiliary programs have 

been designed for the various steps in the data reduction, including programs for 

production control based on statistically signficant accuracy tests. 

operational prototype program for the execution of geodetic satellite triangulation 

for a seven station net was designed, tested, and applied to the first operational 

results on the 800-mile test triangle (Aberdeen, Maryland; Chandler Air Force Base, 

Minnesota and Greenville Air Force Base, Mississippi). The accuracy obtained 

is at least three times better than expected, and the results demonstrate that the 

method is capable of improving the basic first-order triangulation and to serve as 

a unique technique for the establishment of a worldwide 

Furthermore, these results indicate that we will be able to draw significant conclusions about the validity of theorems in theoretical geodesy when the method is 

applied over a larger number of triangles. 

designed to further enhance the metric quality of the data acquistion system. 

A fully 

geodetic reference frame. 

A new lens for the BC-4 has been 

Geomagnetic Activities 

The large coil facility at the Fredericksburg, Maryland Magnetic Observatory and 

Laboratory has continued to serve the needs of the national space program for the 

testing and calibrating of instrumental equipment de signed for measuring intensity 

and direction of the magnetic fields encountered in space. The coil system, with 

fully automatic controls, can maintain a constant field of any specified intensity 

and direction (including zero field strength). The coils are large enough to permit 

generating other artificial physical conditions- -high vacuum, intense sun-like heat 

and light radiation, and very low temperatures. 

86 
The analysis and interpretation of magnetic measurements made in orbiting vehicles 

and space probes must be correlated with the distribution of the magnetic field, and 

its changes, at the earth's surface. For this purpose, the daily records of changes 

in the magnetic field are currently obtained from some 35 to 40 magnetic observatories around the world and are being converted to digital form to permit correlation 

through electronic data processing techniques with the satellite recordings. 

work is a 3-way cooperative effort supported by the Coast and Geodetic Survey, the 

National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the National Science Foundation. 

This 

The magnetic charts of the world for epoch 1965 are being compiled as a cooperative 

project with the U. S. Navy Oceanographic Office using newly developed analytical 

techniques and the largest available electronic computer (the U. S. Weather Bureau's 

"STRETCH" computer). The results of these efforts will be a set of world magnetic 

charts of greater accuracy than any previous publication. Spherical harmonic coefficients of degree and order at least as high at the 18th--possibly the 36th--are 

being derived, which describe the geomagnetic field with higher definition than any 

previous analysis. A mathematical de scription of the magnetic field at any altitude, 

derived from this analysis, should be helpful in any space studies havbg geocentric 

references. 

Seismological Activities 

The seismic effects of the intentional destruction of a TITAN I11 solid fuel motor 

with 80,000 pounds of propellant was monitored to determine the TNT equivalence 

to assess the potential damage from an explosion on the pad or abortive impact 

shortly after launch. 

Two SATURN (SA-5 and SA-6) launches were monitored at the John F. Kennedy 

Space Center with seismic instruments to provide information relative to ground 

equipment design criteria for the control of hazards which could result from largescale missile launches. 

NATIONALBUREAUOF STANDARDS 

The rapidly expanding national space effort has generated many demands for new 

and more precise measurement techniques, for reliable data on the basic properties 

of matter and materials, and for more accurate determinations of physical constants. 

The efforts of the National Bureau of Standards to meet these many and varied needs 

of science and industry contribute substantially, although sometimes indirectly, to 

the space program. 

Basic Measurement Standards and Techniques 

Numerous improvements were made in the calibration services through which NBS 

makes its measurement competence available to science and industry. 

In length measurements, for example, an important advance was the development of 

a line standard interferometer which use 6 automatic fringe-counting techniques. 

instrument was devised for calibrating graduated length scales such as are used on 

many types of precision machinery. For such measurements, it makes possible a 

precision within a millionth of an inch, performing in 15 minutes a calibration 

procedure that previously would have required as long as 15 hours. 

This 

87 
Very large weights are used extensively in the calibration of devices used to measure 

the thrust of rocket engines. Periodically the weights must be calibrated, and the 

equipment is out of service while the weights are shipped to NBS and back. The 

Bureau recently developed a comparative measuring technique which should permit 

any laboratory to use readily available equipment in the calibration of its own large 

weights. With a load cell used as a comparator in a double substitution weighing 

scheme, precisions of 5 parts per million have been achieved in the calibration of 

10, 000-pound weights. 

substantial savings in time and dollars by decreasing the downtime while weights 

are shipped to NBS for calibration. 

Over the xext few years this technique should result in 

The need for accurate temperature measurements below 20° K has increased 

greatly as cryogenic liquids find wide application in rocket propulsion systems and 

in numerous space-age research tools. During the year, the Bureau established a 

new low-temperature calibration facility covering the range 2 to 5O K. It is based 

upon germanium resistance thermometers that have proved especially suitable for 

use in this temperature region. 

was completed which will make it possible to provide calibration services in the 

range from 2 to 20° K in the near future. 

Development of a new acoustical thermometer also 

Because of the enormous complexity of most hot gases or plasmas, it has been 

extremely difficult to develop accurate and convenient diagnostic techniques that 

might provide better measurements and understanding of the characteristics of the 

plasmas encountered in space, solar and stellar atmospheres. 

has developed a new form of plasma-- the brush-cathode plasma--which is both 

stable and uniform, thus lending itself to precision measurement of its characteristics. As a result of this development, the reliability, compatibility, and useful 

ranges of various diagnostic tools such as Langmuir probes, resonant probes, 

microwaves interaction, and spectroscopic measurements can be studied in this 

well-behaved plasma medium. 

The Bureau recently 

Standard Reference Data and ProDerties of Materials 

Reliable basic information on the properties and behavior of matter and materials 

is essential to the design and execution of the complex experiments, equipment, 

and systems involved in the space effort. 

administering and coordinating a National Standard Reference Data System to 

provide critically evaluated data in the physical sciences on a national basis. The 

first year of the NSRDS was devoted mainly to planning the extensive data compilation program. Surveys were made of existing data-compilation activities in seven 

broad technical categories, and a detailed appraisal of needs and priorities for new 

or expanded programs is under way. 

centers in chemical thermodynamics, atomic transition probabilities, atomic cross 

sections, and cryogenics continued in close coordination with the NSRDS. 

In 1963, NBS accepted responsibility for 

Operation of the well established NBS data 

Properties of atoms with excitation energies in the intermediate energy range are 

of special significance to space programs since this type of excitation is normal 

in the hot gases or plasmas that exist in the upper atmosphere and in space. 

However, because of technical difficulties and the lack of adequate tools of analysis, 

only fragmentary studies of atomic properties have been made in this energy range. 

During the year, two powerful new techniques for such studies were devised at 

NBS. The application of a new high-resolution electron scattering apparatus and of 

88 
a far ultraviolet spectrometer employing light generated by the Bureau's 180- 

million electron volt synchrotron has already led to observations of hundreds of 

new atomic levels which exhibit properties that are absent or not relevant in other 

energy ranges. Many of these levels belong to previously unknown negative ions. 

Other atomic data can now be obtained which are of great importance to studies of 

the upper atmosphere and space. 

The broad ranging programs at NBS on basic properties of materials produced much 

needed information during the year. 

polymers when exposed to ionizing radiation, and for determination of the rate of 

vaporization of high-melting-point metals used in the development of thermionic 

generators, were typical. 

Studies supported by NASA on the stability of 

Cryogenics 

Cryogenic activities, centered at the NBS Boulder Laboratories, provide data on 

the bulk properties of materials in the environmental extreme of very low temperatures. Research is conducted at cryogenic temperatures to determine the physical 

properties of materials, the engineering properties of systems, and to develop 

methods for measuring these properties. 

Since many advanced chemical and nuclear rockets use hydrogen as a fuel or as a 

monopropellant, the thermodynamic and transport properties of hydrogen need to 

be known with higher accuracy and over wider ranges of temperature and pressure. 

The Bureau, with the support of NASA, is engaged in an extensive experimental 

program to determine these data. Previously, P-V-T and thermal properties were 

determined, and extensive provisional tables of thermodynamic functions were 

published. During the past year, measurements of the viscosity of hydrogen were 

concluded covering the same pres sure and temperature ranges. 

Many of the problems associated with the use of hydrogen in liquid form as a fuel 

for space vehicles might be eliminated or greatly reduced by further refrigeration 

of the liquid to form a mixture of solid and liquid or "slush. (I 

include short holding or storage time, pump cavitation, flight instability caused 

by sloshing liquid, and safety hazards associated with high hydrogen vent rates. 

With NASA support, the Bureau is conducting a broad study of "slush" hydrogen 

aimed toward an optimization of the concepts to be incorporated in a space vehicle 

launch facility. 

applicable properties of I'slush" hydrogen, and investigation of production methods 

and flow characteristics. 

tions for instrumentation and production of flowable mixtures of solid and liquid 

hydrogen. 

These problems 

This study includes the evaluation and correlation of all known 

The results will assist in the establishment of specificaThe Bureau continued its studies of fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics of 

cryogenic systems. 

is of concern to designers of a .wide range of cryogenic systems. 

method was developed for predicting peak surge pressures to be expected when the 

cold fluids are introduced into ambient-temperature transfer lines. Another study 

was concerned with methods of predicting the rate of heat transfer from, and frost 

formation on, tubes or pipes containing cryogenic fluid and exposed to air. 

Much needed data were produced on boiling heat transfer which 

An analytical 

89 
Radio Propagation 

Through its Central Radio Propagation Laboratory (CRPL) at Boulder, Colorado, 

NBS has a central responsibility for radio propagation research, for prediction of 

radio propagation conditions, and for technical advice and assistance in the use and 

conservation of the radio spectrum. 

needs and problems associated with space and aeronautic telecommunications, 

CRPL conducts broad research intended to improve understanding of atmospheric 

and solar phenomena. The examples which follow represent only a small portion 

of the total program. 

In addition to studies aimed at the specific 

The total eclipse of the sun in July 1963 provided an excellent opportunity for observation of the effects of the eclipse on the ionosphere. 

the ionosphere were made by several laboratories from a total of 22 locations 

across the continent, providing the most extensive set of ionospheric observations 

ever made for a solar eclipse. Analysis of the data by CRPL during the last year 

showed a well marked geographical pattern of variation in the F-region of the 

ionosphere with eclipse time. Maps of this variation are being prepared for use in 

testing theories of physical processes in the ionosphere. 

frequency radio signals received during the same eclipse provided valuable 

information about the response of the D-region of the ionosphere to ionizing radiation. 

Other solar studies during the year were concerned with the persistence of solar 

flare activity at certain locations on the sun, with sudden changes in the so-called 

"dark filaments" on the sun which have been found to be associated with bursts of 

radio noise, and with noise storms in the solar atmosphere. 

Vertical soundings of 

Studies using very-lowCRPL has played an active role in planning, coordinating, and executing certain 

programs for the International Year of the Quiet Sun (IQSY). 

during 1964 and 1965 which is characterized by a lull in solar radio activity and 

hence permits studying phenomena which are obscured by normal solar activity. 

Scientists from more than 65 nations are making measurements, under this 

coordated program, in a variety of disciplines concerned with solar and 

terrestrial physics. With partial support from the National Science Foundation, 

CRPL is operating World Data Center-A for Airglow and Ionosphere and participating in the operation of a Data Center for Solar Activity. 

This is a period 

Success in some areas of the IQSY depends on making observations when the desired 

types of solar and geophysical activity are taking place, for which advance knowledge is needed. Notice of such events is distributed through the NBS Radio Warning 

Services. 

for the International Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) and distributes 

satellite launching and orbit data internationally. 

This group also assigns designations to all satellites and space probes 

At the Jicamarca Radar Observatory operated by CRPL on the magnetic equator 

near Lima, Peru, studies are being made of various features of the equatorial 

ionosphere with a very powerful radar. Its basic function is to study the distribution of electron density by means of the incoherent scatter technique. 

tions made during the year have yielded irformation not only on electron density, 

at heights from 200 to about 10, 000 km, but also on electron and ion composition 

and temperature at heights from 200 to 1200 km. 

major ionic constituent in the magnetosphere, 

sore heights and certain times of day. 

ObservaProtons were found to be the 

outnumbering atomic oxygen at 

Other radar measurements combined with 

90 
theoretical studies at Jicamarca show that acoustic-wave plasma instabilities are 

generated in the equatorial E-region by the flow of the strong equatorial electrojet. 

Radar echoes frm the resulting ionospheric irregularities are similar to previously 

observed auroral radar returns. 

from essentially the same phenomena. 

It is now believed that the auroral returns arise 

Study continued on the radio interference problems that might arise in the event 

space telecommunication services are operated on frequencies shared with systems 

on the surface of the earth. The effectiveness of antenna discrimination against 

unwanted signals is being investigated through both theory and measurement. 

Effects of beam or pattern orientation, polarization changes, and phase interference 

from multi-path propagation are being considered. In closely related work supported 

by the Air Force, experimental microwave measurements were made between a 

mountain top transmitter and several lower elevation receiving sites to determine the 

information rate or bandwidth limitations imposed by the atmosphere on satelliteto-earth communication systems at low elevation angles. 

CRPL scientists used signals from the Ionospheric Beacon Satellite S-66 to chart 

the electron distribution below the satellite path. The electron density was found 

by determining the signal polarities, and thereby the Faraday rotation imposed 

during transit on the linearly polarized satellite transmissions at two closely 

spaced frequencies. 

parallel to the satellite's path. 

from OGO-A. 

Study of these data from three different sources will enable the NBS scientists 

to obtain a more complete, overall picture of the electron density in the ionosphere. 

Observations were made at several stations located on a line 

Data from S-66 will be supplemented by data taken 

These in turn will be compared with results of studies of SPUTNIK LII. 

New statistical techniques and the use of electronic computers produced improved 

methods for predicting the performance of high-frequency skywave radio systems. 

Such computations were used routinely to obtain optimum frequency utilization in 

the NASA ground communication sys tem, in maintaining ground communications 

during mapping by the use of satellites, and in estimating the extended range of highfrequency communications during the APOLLO mission. 

Other Services 

The broad competence of NBS was utilized by many other Federal agencies in 

meeting their responsibilities for aeronautic and space related activities. These 

consultative and advisory services ranged from the basic planning of a global-range 

information-processing and control system for future orbital and space programs 

of interest to the Air Force, to assistance given the Army in the selection of 

construction materials for the SATURN rocket installation at Cape Kennedy. They 

included such activities as consultation with NASA and DOD on corrosion problems, 

testing for DOD of the fatigue strength of various aircraft structures, examination 

for the Civil Aeronautics Board of service failures of aircraft, and mathematical 

studies for NASA on the theory of satellite orbits. 

As a result of action by the Federal Council for Science and Technology, a Clearinghouse for Scientific and Technical Information was estxblished at NBS in February 

1964. 

and the technical community may obtain information on government activities in the 

physical and engineering sciences. 

assisting American industry to benefit from defense and space research. 

The Clearinghouse provides a central point of contact from which industry 

This facility will be of major importance in 

91 
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY 

Economic Analysis of the Supersonic Transport 

At the President's direction, the Department of Commerce has directed a parametric cost-benefit analysis of various supersonic and advanced subsonic transport 

aircraft which could enter airline service in the United States during the next ten 

years. 

manufacturing industry, on U. S. exports, on U. S. airlines, and on the quality and 

cost of air transportation. A wide variety of factors were considered in estimating 

the demand which would be generated for each type of new aircraft in the various 

economic and international environments possible in the early and middle 1970's. 

These factors included: 

safety; convenience of schedule; consumer income; the performance, costs and 

ticket prices of competing aircraft both foreign and domestic; attitudes and practices 

of airline managements; the nature and extent of interconnection between airlines; 

and, the attitudes and practices of governments in establishing route and fare 

structures. 

The study is directed at the impact of new aircraft types on the aircraft 

level of business activity; ticket price; trip time; comfort; 

The demand study was set up in the form of a large computer program which could 

simulate, essentially, the complete operation of the major world airlines, including 

the probable flow of passengers in virtually any competitive situation. This computer 

program, along with others, allowed the airline operating costs and airline revenues 

to be determined for any given period of time. 

conducted on the operations of airframe and engine manufactures which might develop 

the new aircraft. 

Similar cost-benefit analyses were 

The results of this study were used to make a series of recommendations to the 

President regarding the proper goals and the best strategy for a national program 

to retain leadership in the manufacturing and use of modern, economical air 

transport equipment. 

these recommendations as well as the competition potential of the British-French 

Concorde supersonic transport program. 

basic policy questions, such as: the proper pace for SST development; the type of 

industrial competition which would yield the greatest return on investment in SST 

development, and, the the government-industry risk-sharing arrangements best 

suited to timely SST development while preserving the incentives of private 

initiative . 

Both subsonic and supersonic aircraft were considered in 

The findings framed to assist in answering 

This study was conducted with broad cooperation and assistance from the Civil 

Aeronautics Board, the Department of Defense, Federal Aviation Agency, National 

Aeronautics and Space Administration, Department of Treasury, the Air 

Transport Association, Airport Operators Council, the aircraft and engine 

manufacturing industries, and the airline industry. 

92 
SPACE SCIENCE BOARD 

INTR ODUC TION 

CHAPTER 

IX 

The National Academy of Sciences, a private organization of scientists and engineers 

that serves as an official adviser to the Federal Government, is called upon to 

advise the government on scientific aspects of the space program. These advisory 

services are carried out on behalf of the Academy by its Space Science Board. 

addition, the Board furthers space research generally by promoting the discussion 

of advances and opportunities in the field. Internationally, the Board, on behalf of 

the Academy, represents the U. S. scientific community on the Committee on Space 

Research (COSPAR) of the International Council of Scientific Unions (ICSU), and 

has collaborated closely with that committee. The committee serves to encourage 

and guide international cooperation in space research, to facilitate the exchange of 

information, and to elicit the interest and participation of scientists throughout the 

world. 

In 

Committees 

To accomplish its work the Board with an Executive Committee and a small number 

of standing committees holds regular meetings. The committees are: Surfaces 

and Interiors of the Moon and Planets, Life Sciences, Geodetic Uses of Navigational 

Satellites, High Altitude Rocket and Balloon Research, Potential Contamination and 

Interference from Space Experiments, and several ad hoc groups. The Board 

maintains continuous and close liaison with the scientific subcommittees of the 

NASA Space Sciences Steering Committee. In its relations with the international 

scientific community, the Board works through its Committee on International 

Relations, which maintains liaison with NASA, the Department of State, the FCC, 

the DOD and other interested government departments and agencies. 

THE NATIONAL SPACE PROGRAM 

Board Assistance to NASA 

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) requested the Board for 

assistance in reviewing NASA's future space exploration plans with the object of 

relating hardware and development programs to prospective missions. 

Iwrpose of this review was to define those objectives of space exploration which 

might require new missions and the development of major new technologies. 

The main 

NASA pointed out the need for balance in the space program among science, applications and technology, and manned space flight and urged the Board to consider 

the present state and the future direction. 

statement on future goals and at the same time noted that the 1962 Iowa Study, 

A Review of Space Research, is now two years old and should be reexamined to 

bring up to date the views expressed there on problems of scientific interest. 

The Board submitted to NASA a broad 

93 
In its Report to NASA the Board concluded that the exploration of the nearer planets 

will be the most rewarding goal for science, and will also serve as a focus of 

national attention, for the 10 to 15 years following the manned lunar landing, to 

capitalize on the achievements of APOLLO. 

program should be the exploration of the planet Mars. 

released to the public by the Academy on November 17, 1964). 

The Board agreed unanimously that the national goals in space should be: 

The primary goal of the national space 

(Full text of the Report was 

a. 

b. 

C. 

d. 

e. 

f. 

the Mars program should be the major goal past 1970, starting unmanned with the SATURN class of vehicles with suitable decontamination. 

the lunar program should be continued but subordinated to the Mars 

effort, recognizing continued lunar scientific goals. 

a continued program of science in space is essential with respect to: 

earth itself; interplanetary space; solar physics and preliminary exploration of other space objects; and astronomical observations outside 

the atmosphere. 

information for manned programs. 

vehicles could reduce its cost. 

This program is essential to the accumulation of basic 

The development of standardized 

the manned earth orbital program should be developed for rescue, 

service of unmanned vehicles, and several military objectives such 

as inspection, but should be a secondary -- not a primary -- goal. 

flexibility should be provided in all these programs to permit exploitation of any major, unforeseen breakthrough or discovery. 

agrees that our space program must satisfy all national objectives, 

but that to do this the scientific program must make a maximum of sense. 

The Board 

obvious applications should be exploited quickly, as now planned. 

Qualifications and Selection of Scientist-Astronauts 

The Board, acting on the request of NASA, convened an ad hoc committee to develop 

scientific qualifications for scientist-astronaut selection. 

the initial selection of applicants on the basis of scientific qualifications and will 

recommend to NASA approximately 75 individuals. 

branch of science should be excluded a priori from consideration. 

the physics and chemistry of rocks and meteorites is desirable. 

mittee established minimum qualifications and aids towards arriving at certain 

special qualifications. 

The Academy will make 

The committee agreed that no 

Background in 

The ad hoc comThe recommended minimum scientific qualifications are: 

a. a bachelor's degree; and 

b. a doctor's degree in a natural science, medicine or engineering, or 

the e uuival ent ex1se rien ce . - 

Final selection will be made by NASA on the basis of qualifications other than 

scientific. 

94 
Biology and Man in Space 

In April 1964, at the request of the government, a Working Conference was arranged 

at the University of South Florida to study the problems of nutrition and waste disposal on longer space missions. 

of the national authorities in the field of nutrition and representatives of the Department of Defense, as well as various elements of NASA. 

late this year. 

Actively participating in this symposium were many 

A report will be published 

The Life Sciences Committee of the Board has a group of scientists looking into the 

problem of radiation hazards of longer space missions. 

gether the information that has been gained on the space radiation environment and 

relate this to planned missions. 

This group will bring toThe question of the optimum atmosphere for longer manned space missions is being 

reviewed by a Working Group. 

Manned Spacecraft was issued during the past year. 

A Summary Report on Gaseous Environment for 

A review of proposed biomedical experiments for APOLLO-GEMINI missions is 

being conducted. 

continues to be a matter of vital interest to the Space Science Board. 

The support for programs in space biology and manned spacecraft 

Advanced OAO 

The Board agrees that there is justification for placing in orbit an astronomical 

facility larger and more versatile than the Orbiting Astronomical Observatory. 

question was raised by the 1962 Summer Study. 

which should lead to some engineering studies for a large-aperture telescope in 

space. 

This 

Further discussions are necessary 

WEST FORD Experiment and Interference from Space Activities 

The WEST FORD experiment involved the creation of an orbital belt of many fine 

wire dipoles and the testing of its properties as a reflector in a radio communications system. 

belt with limited lifetime, to avoid causing interference to astronomical research. 

Established at the request of the government, a special Board committee has continued to follow this project, to compare its predictions with the results of the 

WEST FORD experiment. 

The experiment as conducted in May 1963 was designed to produce a 

The committee concluded that, with the observing techniques in use today, the 

present experiment has not been harmful to either optical or radio astronomy. 

These conclusions were identical with those of the International Astronomical Union 

and concurred in by the COSPAR Consultative Group on Potentially Harmful Effects 

of Space Experiments (Florence 1964). 

With the possibility that, during the next few years, increasing activity in space may 

lead to contamination of the environment in subtle ways or to interference with other 

scientific research, the Board has established a committee with broader responsibilities in this area of interest. 

its international counterpart, COSPAR's Consultative Group, with a study of the 

The committee has first concerned itself, as has 

95 
levels of accumulation of rocket fuel, exhaust, and chemicals released in the upper 

atmosphere. The conclusion is that all substances (except a few elements of scientific interest, present only as traces in atmosphere) would have to be injected at 

rates several orders of magnitude greater than the present rate to produce any but 

very temporary and local effects. 

Exobiology Summer Study 

In response to a request from NASA the Board decided that a study to develop the 

aims of and the proper strategy and approach to the search for extraterrestrial life 

should be held this year. 

of meetings rather than one extended meeting should be held. 

A Steering Committee was formed and agreed that a series 

The study is progressing satisfactorily. 

ment on the aims of exobiology and to outline a national plan for the pursuit of 

exobiology . 

The main objective is to produce a docuThe latest progress report reiterates that the primary goal of the national space 

program after the APOLLO program should be the exploration of the planet Mars. 

The adventurous exploration of Mars will emphasize strongly the answers to biological questions; hence sterilization techniques will be necessary to avoid contaminating the Mars environment. Knowledge of the physical surroundings of Mars must 

be improved before any actual landing. 

INTERNATIONAL A CTIYI TIES 

Potentiallv Harmful Effects of Space Experiments 

The Board has long been concerned with the problems which might arise from the 

landing of unclean spacecraft on the moon and the planets before an adequate study of 

the existence of life or the chemical precursors of life on these bodies could be 

made. The Board has advised the government with respect to decontamination of 

lunar and Mars probes. The COSPAR Consultative Group on Potentially Harmful 

Effects of Space Experiments has also considered this topic, and has adopted some 

tentatively recommended interim objectives for the guidance of launching nations. 

COSPAR further encourages the exchange of information and cooperation between the 

two major satellite and space probe launching nations, to avoid the contamination of 

Mars by non-sterile spacecraft. 

In other action, COSPAR at its meeting in Florence, Italy, accepted the findings of 

the Board's ad hoc WEST FORD Committee and concluded that no interference to 

optical or radio astronomy has resulted from the belt of orbiting dipoles launched in 

May 1963, but recommended to its members that any proposals for future experiments of this sort be evaluated by the scientific community in order to assess in 

advance their harmlessness to other scientific research. 

Seventh Meeting of COSPAR 

The Board organized the attendance by U. S. scientists at the meeting of COSPAR 

in Florence, Italy, May 8-20, 1964, and prepared and presented the summary 

report of the year's activities in this country in space research. The attendance 

figures indicated a gratifying participation on the part of smaller countries. 

96 
Messages or reports were received from international scientific unions and special 

committees. 

present activity, and plans for the near future were submitted by the national scientific bodies adhering to COSPAR. The yearly increase in the number and content of 

these reports shows a steady growth of interest and activity in space research in the 

countries that have no satellite program of their own, as well as those that do. 

Annual reports on space research done during the previous year, 

International Years of the Quiet Sun (IQSY) 

The planning of the IQSY program is now complete, and observational programs are 

now in operation in 70 participating countries. IQSY work is in progress in at least 

two or three additional countries and it is hoped that these will agree to participate 

formally in the near future. Data in the IQSY disciplines (meteorology, aeronomy, 

aurora and airglow, geomagnetism, the ionosphere, solar physics, and cosmic rays) 

are collected at more than 900 stations, not counting the 700 engaged in more routine 

types of meteorological work. 

and encouraged the rocket and satellite portion of the IQSY program. 

the program eight manuals describing techniques of rocket experiments have been 

prepared and distributed to interested scientists, and a ninth is in press. 

COSPAR's Working Group for the IQSY has planned 

To stimulate 

COSPAR Fifth International Space Science Symposium 

The Fifth International Space Science Symposium was held in conjunction with the 

Seventh Meeting of COSPAR in Florence, Italy, May 8-20, 1964. The U. S. delegation, organized by the Board, contributed more than 90 papers. The central theme 

of the sessions for papers in the physical sciences was The Interaction of Energetic 

Particles with the Atmosphere. Contributions were encouraged from countries that 

have only recently begun space research. 

In the physical sciences sessions, the general impression was one of firming up 

results that had been only suggested in earlier work -- a general filling-in. 

The life sciences are beginning to receive attention commensurate with their importance. 

presentation. 

results from the U. S. S. R. VOSTOK flights. 

The symposium this year was marked by a more nearly balanced 

There was a rather full presentation of biological and physiological 

World Data Center A for Rockets and Satellites 

The Board continued to support the operation of the World Data Center, which 

collects and exchanges the results of research with spacecraft and sounding rockets. 

The usual annual bibliography of reports and papers was submitted to COSPAR. Of 

particular interest was the transmittal of sets of original RANGER 7 photographs of 

the moon to the World Data Centers in other parts of the world. 

97 
SMITHSONIAN ASTROPHYSICAL CHAPTER 

X OBS ERV AT0 RY 

INTRODUCTION 

Established in 1890 as a center for research in solar astronomy, the Smithsonian 

Astrophysical Observatory pursues a broad program of research in astrophysics 

and related space sciences. 

tracking network, field stations for the observation of meteors, satellite experiments, 

and similar projects. Re search topics include the geopotential, geometrical geodesy, 

the upper atmosphere, meteors, meteorites, comets, the planets, and various solar 

and stellar phenomena. 

parent institution, by federal appropriations, and by foundations. For the space 

programs, major grants are received from the National Aeronautics and Space 

Administration. 

Observational data are obtained from a satellite 

These activities are supported by private funds from the 

More than fifty scientists carry out these research projects. 

joined by consultants from other institutions in the United States and foreign 

countrie s, exemplifying the best tradition of the international spirit of science. 

Each year they are 

OPTICAL SATELLITE TRACKING PROGRAM 

The optical satellite tracking program of the Observatory has a dual mission: it 

gathers data for investigations by staff scientists of the density and temperature 

of the upper atmosphere, the earth's gravitational field, and the geometrical 

relation between points on the earth's surface; and it provides preliminary coverage 

of new NASA launches and tracks satellites on special assignments from NASA and 

other agencies. 

The network consists of 12 Baker-Nunn camera stations in 10 countries as well as 

of Moonwatch teams of volunteer observers. The Baker-Nunn stations made more 

than 40,000 observations in 1964--an increase of better than 30% over the previous 

year. Included were many simultaneous observations from two or more stations to 

support the world-wide geodetic measurements being made by the Observatory, and 

special films of the geodetic flashing satellite ANNA IB. Approximately 32,000 

Baker-Nunn films were reduced to determine precise satellite positions relative to 

atomic time. 

The camera stations also produced unique photographic data for SYNCOM 11, 

CENTAUR (AC-2) and other objects on special assignment. 

A model of the major temperature variations in the upper atmosphere has been 

prepared from analyses of Baker-Nunn observations of satellites. 

tions of INJUN 3 and EXPLORER 17, have determined that atmospheric heating 

accompanying geomagnetic disturbances is greater in the auroral zones than at 

Recent observa99 
middle latitudes. 

netic index departs strikingly from linearity on magnetically-near -quiet days, thus 

implying greater heating from this source than had been thought. 

Also, the relation between atmospheric heating and the geomagFrom 26,000 precisely reduced Baker-Nunn observations of 11 objects, new estimates 

have been made of the coefficients of zonal, tesseral, and sectorial harmonics of 

the geopotential. Related studie s support the hypothesis that irregularities of the 

earth derived from satellite observations are correlated with uneven thermal expansion of the earth's mantle from some heating process, perhaps an inhomogeneous 

distribution of radioactive heat source S. 

More than 45,000 Baker-Nunn films were used in a new analysis to derive the coordinates of the camera stations. 

tions of the absolute deflections of the vertical for seven geodetic datums. 

The resulting information was used in determinaOther geodetic investigations employ simultaneous observations from two or more 

Baker-Nunn stations to define the directions of the lines connecting them to an 

accuracy approaching one second of arc. 

independent determination of the relation of the major world datums. 

In time, these efforts will provide an 

As an adjunct to this expanded geodetic work, the International Union of Geodesy 

and Geophysics and the International Committee on Space Research have invited the 

Observatory to establish and maintain in Cambridge an international Central Bureau 

for Satellite Geodesy. 

and other data on satellite geodesy. 

The Bureau will collect and publish predictions, observations, 

METEORITIC STUDIES 

Through data obtained by several newly completed field system s, the Observatory's 

investigations in the meteoritic sciences have expanded. 

By mid- 1964, all 16 camera stations of the meteorite recovery program became 

fully operational. 

meteors whose luminosity far exceeded any on which data had previously been 

acquired. One set of photographs yielded data that will lead to a search for a 

possible meteorite. 

Shortly thereafter, double - station photographs were obtained of 

The addition of large trough -antennas to all sites of the Harvard-Smithsonian radio 

meteor project greatly enhanced its capabilities. 

has provided comprehensive data on meteors significantly smaller than previously 

studied by similar projects, and major results from the improved networks are 

imminent. 

upper atmospheric wind by measurement of the drift of meteor trails. 

This multistation radar system 

In addition, members of the project are conducting an investigation of 

Except for an additional camera station, instrumentation for the meteor simulation 

project was completed with the installation of four radar receivers and a shipboard 

transmitter. This program, conducted with the cooperation of NASA's Langley 

Research Center, makes possible simultaneous radar measurements and optical 

observations of the luminosity and ionization produced by artificial meteors. 

The Observatory's program for the identification and analysis of micrometeoritic 

particles is continuing. The recently completed mass spectrometer is used to 

100 
ascertain the presence of material of extraterrestrial origin in deep sea sediments 

and in matter from Greenland ice. 

Significant advances were made in the programs for the analysis of meteorites. 

Sufficient materials were separated from the recently fallen chondrite Peace River 

to permit measurement of the short-lived argon-37 in the whole-rock, magnetic, 

and nonmagnetic phases. Analyses have also been made of xenon and krypton from 

minerals and chondrules from the Bruderheim meteorite. Methods were devised 

for trace-element determinations by mass spectrometry of neutron-irradiated 

samples, as well as for potassium-argon dating. 

The measurements of cosmic-ray-produced radioactive and stable isotopes in extraterrestrial material have established the time that various meteorites were exposed 

to cosmic rays. 

in addition to cosmic rays there are isotope effects produced by Van Allen and solar 

flare particles. 

Similar measurements made on recovered satellites indicate that 

A metallurgical study of Widmanstztten patterns in metallic meteorites was made to 

establish the roles of pressure, temperature, and time in the formation of these 

patterns. A method of analysis using the method of finite differences was developed 

for the diffusion-controlled growth of the Widmanstytten patterns. Two alternative 

models have been proposed for the origin of meteorites in which the Widmanstytten 

pattern formed at low pressures. 

COMETARY STUDIES 

The Baker-Nunn network has been employed to make a series of observations of 

comets for analysis and study by the Observatory staff. It is known that the tail 

of a comet may oscillate about the line directed through the comet away from the 

sun; observations by the Baker-Nunn cameras are being used to investigate this 

phenomenon. 

A photometric study is concerned with several other cometary features, including 

whether changes in comet magnitudes correlate with solar activity. 

The Director of the Observatory has suggested the possibility that several periodic 

comets may disappear within a few years. This research should stimulate further 

studies of the actual decay processes of comets and efforts to rediscover old comets 

that have disappeared. 

Newresearch is being conducted on the theory that the head of a comet may be an icy 

conglomerate. 

laboratory work has been initiated to explain the transfer of heat and mass within 

substances like snow and frosty sand. 

After a re-examination of the theory of heat transfer in glaciers, 

SPACE OBSERVATORIES 

Project Celescope is the Observatory's satellite experiment to survey the stars in 

the ultraviolet ray region. 

undergoing extensive environmental testing. 

Orbiting Astronomical Observatory, is under construction. Procedures for the 

absolute calibration of the four ultraviolet television photometers have been e stabThe prototype instrument has been completed and is now 

The flight instrument, for launch in an 

101 
lished, and a procedure for coordinating the reduction and analysis of the automated 

data has been defined. 

In a continuing project, reduction of 1,000 orbits of data from the Orbiting Solar 

Observatory A has indicated no evidence of high-energy gamma rays from the sun, 

even during solar flares. 

A new sensitive detector is being built for use in balloons and satellites to search 

for high-energy gamma rays from celestial sources. The device is a spark chamber 

used in conjunction with a television system. 

of the detector are being made. In a related project, in cooperation with the Army 

Quartermaster Corps, a converted large-area solar furnace is being used as a 

ground-based detector to search for extremely high-energy gamma rays. 

Preparations for a balloon flight test 

OTHER SPACE STUDIES 

In the field of planetary sciences the nature of atomic collision processes is being 

studied by an analysis of the phenomena of the aurora and airglow. Another study 

is concerned with possible atmospheric phenomena on Mars and Venus. 

involving laboratory synthesis of molecules fundamental to biological proce s se s, is 

attempting an answer to the key question of the origin of life on earth and possibly 

elsewhere. 

A third, 

An analysis of Saturn's rings continues. 

In solar studies, observations are being analyzed to correlate photospheric 

velocities and magnetic fields. 

are being studied. 

Ways that neutrionos from the sun can be detected 

The Baker-Nunn cameras continue to be used to photograph flare stars nearly 

simultaneously with observations by radio telescopes. One result has been to show 

that the velocity of light is constant to better than one part in lo6 over a range in 

6 wavelength exceeding a factor of 2 x 10 . 

The Smithsonian catalog giving the positions, magnitudes, and other data on more 

than 250,000 stars will be issued in early 1965. 

102 
FEDERAL AVIATION AGENCY 

INTRODUCTION 

Along with new challenges typical of a dynamic technology, 1964 brought to the 

Federal Aviation Agency fresh opportunities to help advance aviation in the interests 

of the Nation's general welfare and security. 

agement processes and organizational structure were improved. FAA contributes to 

the advancement of the Nation's aviation through its major missions of promoting air 

safety, fostering civil aeronautics and air commerce at home and abroad, and 

assuring safe and efficient utilization of airspace for all users. 

Towards this end, the Agency's manNATIONAL AIRSPACE SYSTEM DEVELOPMENTS 

FAA's evolutionary plan for a National Airspace System (NAS) capable of meeting 

with safety the demands of the supersonic era reached new and important stages 

during 1964. The NAS plan is based on general recommendations of the Project 

BEACON airspace utilization report approved by President Kennedy early in his administration. 

updated to keep pace with continuing advances in technology and national needs. 

assure timely, coordinated progress in the many programs making up the total 

system, the FAA Administrator in October established a NAS Special Projects 

Office, charged with overall responsibility for directing the NAS implementation 

efforts of various Agency components. 

It was elaborated by FAA's Systems Design Team and is progressively 

To 

NAS design calls for use of an air traffic control radar beacon system (ATCRBS) to 

automatically give controllers discrete aircraft identification and continuous, threedimensional, position information. The airborne portion of the system, an altitude 

and identity reporting transponder, is available commercially for large and medium 

aircraft. 

pected to be on the market in 1965. 

equipment paved the way for field trials of several ATCRBS components. 

trial is scheduled to begin at Atlanta airport early in 1965, testing the advanced 

radar traffic control system (ARTS) for terminal use. Another version SPAN 

(stored program alphanumerics) which uses the same basic hardware group-- 

computer, digitizer, and alphanumeric generator- -will begin trial operations about 

the same time handling en route traffic at FAA's Indianapolis air route traffic control center. 

Developed by FAA's Project SLATE, a model for small aircraft is exRapid progress during the year on ground 

The first 

FAA also moved toward the follow-on stage of greater automation in the evolutionary 

construction of NAS. Contracts were let during the year for additional system components including a central computer complex and common digitizer. Developed by 

FAA and designed to meet FAA/DOD common system requirements, this digitizer 

translates primary radar echoes as well as transponder beacon returns into digital 

messages acceptable to the central computer complex. 

at Jacksonville air route traffic control center will begin in 1965. 

semiautomated system is scheduled to be fully operational by mid-1967. 

Installation of the equipment 

This prototype 

103 
Work continued on various devices that will continuously check essential system operations when the ATCRBS comes into nationwide use. 

beacon ground station performance monitor was developed at FAA's National Aviation 

Facilities Experimental Center (NAFEC). Development and trial installation of common digitizers (CD's) were further steps toward fashioning a National Airspace 

System. Besides making it possible to send radar and beacon data from field sites to 

control centers at costs greatly lower than by older methods, the equipment also converts data into the digital format required for processing in NAS computers. 

During the report year, a 

While FAA pushed ahead with developmental work on the future National Airspace 

System, more immediate steps were taken to improve the present system from whicE 

it is evolving. Among these were: 

a. replacement under a joint FAA-USAF program of outmoded terminal 

radars with equipment better suited to handle high-performance jet 

aircraft. 

b. installation at five air route traffic control centers of the first 

transistorized, automated (real-time) computer system to be used 

by FAA in traffic control. 

c. completion of the first field installation of a newly developed antenna 

for instrument landing systems (ILS). 

the low-cost antenna used with standard ILS equipment can provide 

precise enough guidance for aircraft to land in weather minimums of 

100-foot ceiling and 1/4-mile visibility. 

A major achievement in design, 

d. installation of greatly improved antenna systems on some 150 VOR's 

(very high frequency omnidirectional radio range), the basic source of 

radio navigational information for civil pilots and equip approximately 

130 VOR's with improved dual-channel monitors for better on-the-air 

performance and about 60 with voice call signs--in addition to Morse 

code- -for easier identification by pilots. 

e. development for use with airport approach lighting systems of a new 

high-intensity lamp applying the iodine-cycle principle. 

evaporation of tungsten from and its return to the filament prolongs 

lamp life to about six times that of the present standard. 

The cycle of 

f. commission of a new high-speed data interchange system handling air 

traffic control and flight movement information. 

locations, the new system supplants relay operations previously performed 

at 55 locations. 

Installed at 10 

To better serve user needs and at the same time make more efficient use of navigational aids for the Nation's skyways, FAA radically revised the basic U. S. airway/ 

route structure. Effective September 17, 1964, the revision substituted a two-layer 

for the previous three-layer scheme. Short- and intermediate-range flights now take 

place at levels below 18, 000 feet mean sea level, while long-range operations use a 

jet route structure at flight levels between 18, 000 and 45, 000 feet. Airspace above 

45,000 feet is reserved for point-to-point operations on a random routing basis. The 

new structure is reducing pilot-controller workload by requiring fewer radio contacts 

and navigational checkpoints. 

104 
All 22 of FAA's domestic air route traffic control centers (ARTCC's) are now providing radar separation service for aircraft operating at high altitudes. Addition of 

the Boston and Great Falls ARTCC's to the program during the year put virtually all 

airspace in the continental United States between 24, 000 and 60,000 feet under area 

positive control (APC). In contrast to nonradar separation, sometimes requiring as 

much as 100 miles, APC service permits jets to be safely separated by as little as 

5 miles and thus expedites traffic flow. 

The Agency program to consolidate air route traffic control centers (ARTCC's) and 

realign area boundaries kept on schedule with the target date for completion set for 

July 1965. ARTCC's at St. Louis, Detroit, and Phoenix were phased out during the 

year--their services taken over by the Kansas City, Cleveland, and Albuquerque 

centers, respectively. In a parallel move, FAA began a field test of proposals to 

reduce the number of flight service stations without adversely affecting services 

needed by the aviation public. These efforts are all part of a continuing process to 

keep FAA's facilities and services in line with technological advances and changing 

user needs. 

In keeping with its statutory mandate to establish a common civil-military system of 

air traffic control, FAA, in cooperation with the Department of Defense, pushed 

ahead with programs to further this purpose. 

military air defense requirements can be met by the same facilities, a continuing 

program calls for joint-use arrangements. 

first full year during which the SAGE direction center at Great Falls, Mont., did 

double duty, functioning also as an FAA air route traffic control center. 

Agency ARTCC's, radar indicator displays were installed during the year for air 

defense purposes. 

for such joint-use operations. 

joined the common surveillance system, bringing to 57 the total serving in this dual 

capacity . 

Where FAA's air traffic control and 

The close of the report period marked the 

At three 

Six FAA centers--in addition to Great Falls--are now equipped 

Seven more FAA-military long-range radars (LRR's) 

FAA and DOD also explored ways of reducing the overall LRR inventory of the two 

agencies through wider application of the joint-use concept. 

to progressively reduce the current national inventory of 166 to a total of 145. 

mination of these 21 systems will produce annual economies in the neighborhood of 

$17 million. 

Plans were formulated 

EliActions begun in 1963 to consolidate FAA-DOD long-haul communications services 

are producing operational gains while furthering work underway to develop a National 

Communications System (NCS). Mid-1964 marked the first full year during which 

FAA's commercial leased-line requirements were combined with those of the Defense 

Communications Agency. The bulk-tariff arrangements have resulted in annual 

savings of more than $6 million. A parallel project aims at incorporating FAA's 

command/control voice communications into the automatic voice network (AUTOVON), 

a component of the NCS, being installed in the Defense Communications System. 

During 1964 joint FAA-DOD teams drafted plans for integrating communications 

systems and facilities in the Caribbean and Pacific areas. 

plan had been approved for implementation by the Secretary of Defense and the FAA 

Administrator; final details were being worked out for the Caribbean. 

At year's end, the Pacific 

Highlighting a number of other common system achievements were those that: 

105 
a. 

b. 

C. 

d. 

implemented an FAA-CONAD agreement (FAA Authorization for 

Interceptor Operations) under which air-defense interceptor activities 

are conducted within the same FAA traffic control system that controls all other aircraft operating under instrument flight rules. 

established procedures, similar to those above, covering interceptor 

and antisubmarine warfare operations in the Pacific area. 

furthered sy s tem standardization and ope rational ef f ec tivene s s through 

joint FAA-DOD management of air traffic controller training programs 

and by integration of the USAF Communications Service (AFCS) evaluation 

program with that conducted in flight by FAA. 

established certification standards for bringing military facilities into 

the common system. 

AVIATION SAFETY PROGRAMS 

The year 1964 witnessed broad-ranging government-industry investigations concerning turbulent air masses and their relation to the safe operation of turbojet transports. 

Beginning in 1963, one swept-wing jet accident and several dangerous upsets or uncontrolled dives, associated with severe turbulence at high altitudes, spurred precautionary actions pending precise pinpointing of possible causes. Aircraft manufac - 

turers revised upward recommended rough air penetration speed to avert the possibility of stalls and loss of control; air carriers introduced as part of their pilot 

training programs concentrated instruction on jet penetration of turbulence; and FAA 

in its safety surveillance and advisory activities placed heavy stress on approved 

practices and procedures for bad-weather flying. 

swept-wing airframes has revealed no pattern of fatigue problems, even though some 

of the jets have flown over 15, 000 hours. 

the year to validate the control systems of high-performance turbojets. 

for completion of the project report is set for early 1965. 

Continued careful monitoring of the 

A joint FAA-industry team worked during 

Target date 

Research and flight test programs related to the turbulence problem were accelerated. 

Using specially instrumented Agency jet aircraft, FAA and NASA pilots flew into 

areas of known turbulence to obtain engineering and pilot performance data. This information was incorporated into the vertical motion simulator at NASA's Ames 

Laboratory, where pilots simulated flying under conditions of greater turbulence than 

would be prudent in actual practice. Additional tests to determine pilot reaction to 

such G-forces as might be encountered in rough air were conducted at the U. S. Navy's 

Aeromedical Acceleration Laboratory with airline pilots serving as subjects in the 

human centrifuge. 

information concerning the adequacy of cockpit instruments and airspeed margins. 

Results of these human-factors tests will provide FAA with better 

In other projects, FAA explored new or improved techniques and equipment for 

identifying, tracking, and displaying turbulent airmasses. Tests were begun to 

evaluate the effectiveness of such devices as an electronic storm detector, a sensor 

for measuring at a distance temperature changes in airmasses, and improved airborne weather radar. Conclusions reached in studies of the turbulence problem 

underscored the FU air traffic controller's need for suitable weather displays. 

During the year contracts were let for equipment to meet this requirement. 

while, with the cooperation of the U. s. Weather Bureau, the Agency initiated a 

Mean106 
program to remote USWB displays to selected FAA air traffic control facilities. 

These actions will help FAA controllers to assist pilots in flying around severe 

weather and to avoid unintentionally routing aircraft into such areas. 

FAA's hopes for improving aviation safety depend heavily on aeromedical research 

efforts to obtain a broader understanding of man-machine relationships and the human 

factors in the aeronautical environment. Much of this research is carried out by 

Agency medical scientists at FAA's Civil Aeromedical Research Institute (CARI), 

Aeronautical Center, Oklahoma City, and at the Georgetown Clinical Research 

Institute of Georgetown University. 

Special attention was given during the year to impact studies. 

were uncovered showing that the human body is many more times resistant to impact 

than previously thought. In collaboration with the USAFI s Medical Research Laboratory, CARI prepared and published the most comprehensive compilation to date of 

existing biomedical knowledge on acceleration, impact, vibration, and restraint 

systems. 

papers. 

Important new data 

The compilation is based on findings disclosed in some 20, 000 scientific 

Another publication of special interest aimed more directly at serving general aviation was "Medical Facts for Pilots." An analysis of accident data gathered by FAA 

and CAB investigators, the booklet throws light on key human factors figuring as 

causes of light aircraft accidents in recent years. 

FAA researchers studied the fatigue problem as it relates to the efficiency of airmen 

and air traffic controllers. 

trollers was analyzed. To determine the effect on aircrew members of rapid timezone changes- -routinely experienced in current air carrier jet operations--detailed 

physiological and psychological studies were made on subjects flying to and from the 

Far East. 

scheduling procedures which minimize fatigue, thereby enhancing air safety. 

The effect of rotating shifts worked by air traffic conKnowledge gained from these studies will be used to develop guidelines for 

Studies are also continuing on man's aging process and its relation to pilot proficiency. 

This work aims at developing better criteria than a standard physical examination and 

the subject's chronological age for determining when an airman, through aging, is no 

longer able to safely perform his job. 

FAA made further progress in a number of programs which, though not interrelated, 

aimed directly at enhancing air safety. Some of these achievements were: 

a. establishing the feasibility of emergency arresting gear systems for 

large transport aircraft and spearhead a concerted government-industry 

undertaking to define comprehensively the use and characteristics of 

the proposed system. 

b. endorsing the use of crash locator beacons to speed search and rescue 

of downed civil aircraft. 

c. cooperating with the USAF to program single-frequency approach procedures for single-seater jets at 16 high priority airbases. 

procedures will reduce the risk of accidents resulting from pilot vertigo. 

These 

107 
d. 

e. 

f. 

g. 

completion of an extensive field survey evaluating the accuracy of 

airborne radio navigation equipment and test new, low-cost techniques 

for calibrating altimeters. 

programs aim at increasing the capacity of the Nation's airways 

through reduced separation standards achievable with more precise 

cockpit instrumentation. 

Along with greater air safety these 

conducting the first turbojet safety seminar for general aviation pilots. 

Current plans call for additional seminars to keep pace with the growing 

general aviation us e of jet aircraft. 

taking steps to assure the adequacy of emergency procedures and crewmember training of air carriers engaged in overwater operations. 

conducting research probing the potential hazards created by lightning 

striking an aircraft wing, and evaluate ignition, flammability, and 

explosive characteristics of fuels in this circumstance. 

As technology moves onward, creating more sophisticated hardware, air safety 

hinges increasingly on competent maintenance specialists and effective systems for 

managing the complex aircraft maintenance processes. 

safety received continuing emphasis during the year. 

safety standpoint the systems and practices used by air carriers in directing and controlling all phases of aircraft maintenance the Agency developed an experimental 

"Maintenance Management Audit System. I' 

praisals of maintenance management in such critical areas as inspection, mechanical 

performance, production and quality controls, maintenance and performance analysis, 

and product modification. 

programs confirmed the validity of the concept. In the next step various refinements 

will be incorporated to make the system suitable for industrywide use. 

began applying air carrier reliability control concepts to general aviation operations. 

Development of a maintenance difficulty reporting system will permit FAA to more 

effectively monitor maintenance trends and practices in this most rapidly expanding 

segment of U. S. aviation. 

These aspects of aviation 

To better evaluate from a 

The new approach includes detailed apConducted in cooperation with two air carriers, test 

FAA also 

Work continued this year to improve and update the education, training, and licensing 

of aviation mechanics and other maintenance personnel. Of particular interest was a 

new study program conducted at five private and public aviation schools featuring a 

jet-age curriculum with specific teaching objectives and achievement levels established by FAA. 

giving approved mechanic schools authority to examine and recommend for Agency 

certification their own graduates. 

FAA to certain flight schools. 

Another objective of the program is to test the practicality of 

Such examining authority is already delegated by 

In December national winners were selected in the second annual aviation mechanics 

safety awards program. A combined FAA, Flight Safety Foundation, and aviation 

community undertaking, the awards program recognizes aviation mechanics who contribute conspicuously to air safety through original ideas for maintenance improvements. 

To lay a solid technological groundwork for improving safety standards and rules FAA 

is engaged in aircraft safety research and development. 

launched major new programs to attack one of civil aviation's most pressing 

During 1964, the Agency 

108 
problems - -crash fatalities in survivable accidents. 

The Flight Safety Foundation, under FAA contract, conducted an experimental program that promises to yield some of the most constructive and comprehensive information ever gathered from crash tests involving large transport aircraft. 

past accidents in which aircraft occupants might have survived with adequate protective devices, a weary DC-7 airliner, remotely controlled, was deliberately wrecked 

in April. 

Lockheed Constellation. 

forces on passenger and crew seats, restraint and fuel containment systems, and 

other airframe components. In the September test, 130 separate items of crash data 

were successfully recorded. 

load environment for typical survivable accidents, thus aiding design of crashworthy 

airframes and improved cabin safety features. 

Simulating 

A second full-scale crash test took place in September using a surplus 

The aircraft were thoroughly instrumented to record impact 

Test results will be used to define accurately the crashIn a related project, the Agency sought to improve the odds of rescue from crashed 

aircraft that catch fire, through better techniques of suppressing fire and prolonging 

survival time. 

Atlantic City, 22 scientific fire tests, which included burning five surplus USAF 

C-97'~~ highlighted these experiments undertaken in cooperation with the Air Force. 

Conducted with devices to measure internal and external temperatures, air velocity, 

and toxic gases, the experiments tested the effectiveness of both ground equipment 

and helicopters in applying dry chemicals and foam. 

NAFEC tests indicate that the helicopter was not successful as a firefighter in large 

transport crashes. 

lished for dissemination to the aviation community. 

At FAA's National Aviation Facilities Experimental Center (NAFEC), 

Preliminary findings in the 

Nearing completion at year's end, a final report will be pubPrevention of in-flight structural failures is another objective of FAA safety investigations. 

collision with birds, tests were completed on Viscount and DC-7 horizontal stabilizers and evaluation begun on Boeing 707 stabilizers. Extensive flight tests are 

underway on a system to augment the stability of light high-performance aircraft. 

Such a system could provide protection against in-flight structural failure during 

recovery from high-speed dives--a common accident that often results from pilot 

disorientation under weather conditions. 

In a project to determine the ability of aircraft structures to withstand 

AIRCRAFT DEVELOPMENT 

The U. S. supersonic transport (SST) program moved through design and evaluation 

phases during the year. 

boom and economics. Twenty-one U. S. and foreign flag air carriers reserved 93 

delivery positions for a U. S. SST when the airplane becomes available, submitting 

$9.3 million to the Treasury in advance royalty payments. 

Important research was undertaken in the fields of sonic 

Following President Kennedy's determination in June 1963 that the Government should 

proceed with a program of assistance to industry for development of an SST and request for congressional support, FAA prepared a Request for Proposals establishing 

aircraft performance objectives as a basis for design competition among industry. 

This RFP was prepared in a process that included close coordination of successive 

drafts with manufacturers, airlines, government agencies, and other aviation groups 

concerned. This was made available to industry, in final form, on August 15, 1963. 

109 
In mid-January 1964, three airframe manufacturers and three engine builders submitted initial design proposals in response to this Request for Proposals. 

prehensive evaluation of these designs was carried out by the Supersonic Transport 

Evaluation Group--a team of aviation specialists directed by FAA's Deputy 

Administrator for Supersonic Transport Development and including personnel from 

NASA, Air Force, Navy, CAB, and the Department of Commerce. Concurrently, 

10 U. S. airlines independently evaluated the design proposals. 

mendations emerging from the evaluation process were reviewed by the FAA 

Administrator and by President Johnson's Advisory Committee on Supersonic 

Transport, which the President established in April 1964. 

ComFindings and recomOn May 20, 1964, after receiving recommendations from the 'Committee and from 

the Administrator of FAA, the President directed the award of contracts for further 

design work. FAA awarded these contracts on June 1, 1964, to two airframe and 

two engine companies. The two airframe companies were directed to conduct wind 

tunnel testing, structural analyses, and other studies aimed at improving and refining designs to meet technical and economic objectives for a safe, operationally 

efficient, economically practical SST. Engine contractors were directed to develop 

detailed preliminary layout designs to satisfy criteria for performance, operation, 

reliability, safety, maintainability, and economy established in conjunction with 

airframe manufacturers to allow final engine sizing and design for further development at conclusion of these contracts. In each of the four contracts, which totaled 

$22 million, the government provided 75 percent of costs and the contractor 

25 percent. 

Procedures for evaluating second- round designs pazalleled the government-airline 

evaluation of initial SST proposals. 

Evaluation Group performed its task from November 1 to November 30, 1964, at 

FAA headquarters in Washington, the NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, 

Va., and Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. The President announced on 

December 3 that, on the recommendation of his Advisory Committee, he had 

directed FAA to extend the engine and airframe design contracts so the companies 

could "continue to study the problems associated with the airframe and engine of a 

commercial supersonic transport . . .I1 'I.. . keep together the skeleton teams they 

have been using to work on this problem. 'I 

The joint governmental Supersonic Transport 

In addition to authorizing contract awards for further efforts to achieve an optimum 

SST design, the President in May 1964 also (1) instructed the Department of 

Commerce to undertake economic studies,, and (2) directed that sonic boom research continue with the guidance of the National Academy of Sciences. 

at the time was a major study in the Oklahoma City area of public reaction to sonic 

boom. This study ran from February 3 through July 30, 1964. A report of preliminary data gathered in this study was published on August 3, 1964. A comprehensive program report was scheduled by the end of 1964. A study of structural 

effects of sonic boom began at White Sands Missile Range on November 18, 1964. 

It was scheduled to be concluded February 5, 1965. 

In progress 

Study and research in the fields of air traffic control, flight controls, and airworthiness continued during the past year. When NASA's SST flight simulator went 

into operation in May 1964 at Langley Research Center, Va., it was tied in with the 

FAA air traffic simulator at NAFEC for this purpose. 

is being conducted by FAA and the Air Force in a simulator at Wright-Patterson 

AFB and in test-flights of T-39 aircraft equipped with experimental control and 

The flight control program 

110 
display equipment at the Instrument Pilot Instructor's School, Randolph AFB, Tex. 

In the field of airworthiness, in which FAA published "Tentative Airworthiness 

Objectives and Standards for Supersonic Transport Design Proposals" last year 

following a preliminary publication in 1961, a number of informal conversations and 

formal meetings were held with officials of the joint Anglo-French Concorde SST 

program. 

Requests for delivery positions for the U. S. supersonic transport continued to be received from the world's airlines during the year. 

U. S. flag carriers, plus one aircraft leasing company, held these positions at year's 

end. 

pending identification of the aircraft's manufacturer. 

priorities to meet this requirement was established in 1963. 

Fourteen foreign flag and seven 

In this connection, the Federal Aviation Agency acts in an intermediary role 

A system of aircraft delivery 

Developments during the year proved disappointing in FAA's program to stimulate 

the design and production of a safe, economical, and efficient short-haul transport 

to succeed the 28-year-old DC-3. 

petition by seven U. S. and two French manufacturers, were evaluated by a 50-man 

team of government/industry aviation experts. None of the designs was considered 

to represent a sufficient advance in the state of the art to warrant award of a detailed design contract. Future FAA actions will depend upon continuing industry 

efforts to design an improved aircraft which meets local service and government 

needs. 

Preliminary proposals, submitted in design comTo increase the commercial utility and availability of aircraft designed primarily for 

military us e, FAA continued to participate in numerous development programs conducted by the armed services. During the reporting period, FAA completed extensive flight-testing and certificated for civil use all three entries in the Army's light 

observation helicopter competition as well as the Air Force's CH-3C helicopter. In 

the cargo-transport field, design improvements essential to meet civil airworthiness 

standards are in progress on the Air Force's C-141 STARLIFTER. 

the civil version to all-cargo carriers is expected to begin in 1967. 

Deliveries of 

OTHER ACTIVITIES FOSTERING AERONAUTICS 

In steps toward safe all-weather flying, FAA during 1964: 

a. established new standards for lowering landing minimums down to 

a decision height of 100 feet and runway visual range of 1, 200 feet. 

b. continued to put high priority on programs having as their objective 

the development of ground and airborne systems needed to achieve 

safe, routine landings under zero-zero weather conditions. 

c. evaluated use of mapping radar for helicopter navigation. 

d. developed a recorder to accurately measure under all-weather 

conditions landing and departure profiles of civil transports. 

In cooperation with the aviation industry and other Federal agencies FAA is seeking 

realistic solutions to the complex and difficult problems associated with aircraft 

engine noise. During the report period, new contracts were awarded and research 

111 
continued to investigate new techniques for compressor noise reduction, to analyze 

aircraft departure profiles in relation to ground noise effects, to develop better 

criteria for evaluating noise nuisance, and to study new methods for suppressing 

exhaust nois e. 

An Aviation Human Resources Study Board was created in February to undertake a 

comprehensive investigation of civil aviation manpower requirements over the next 

20 years. Findings and recommendations of the study establish guidelines for improved government-industry planning to prevent a shortage of skills in the Nation's 

expanding $7 billion civil aviation industry. 

112 
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS 

COMMISSION 

INTRODUCTION 

CHAPTER 

x I1 

The Commission participated in the drafting of the two historic international agreement s for the operation of the global commercial satellite communication system. 

The regulatory activities of the Commission in the field of satellite communications 

continued during 1964 at an accelerated pace. Applications relating to financial 

and technical matters which were submitted by the Corporation were considered 

and authorizations issued, and procurement procedures were reviewed. The 

Commission assisted the Securities and Exchange Commission in the review of the 

Corporation's preliminary prospectus for stock offering in order to determine that 

full disclosure had been made to the public, and cooperated with the Small Business 

Administration in enlarging the scope of small business procurement participation. 

The Commission authorized the Corporation to construct the "EARLY BIRD" 

satellite. The Commissian began deliberations to establish a policy regarding the 

ownership and operation of U. S. terminal stations; offered testimony in Congressional hearings; heard proposals from industry for extending satellite communications so as to provide global coverage by the multiple-access mode of operations; 

and cooperated with the Canadian Government in the selection of frequencies for use 

by their earth station at Mill Village, Nova Scotia. 

As air traffice increases so do the communications necessary for the protection of 

human life and safe operation of the aircraft. 

regulatory activities in this field studies are under way to determine the feasibility 

of using satellites for communications related to safety of life and property and thus 

relieve the congestion on presently overloaded frequencies and provide for orderly 

expansion of communications needs in the future. 

In addition to the Commission's 

INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS ESTABLISHED 

The accelerated pace of developments in satellite communications technology in this 

country greatly stimulated interest by other nations in participation in the system. 

A series of international discussions resulted in two international agreements 

which have established the organizational framework for the global commercial 

satellite system. 

The first, "Agreement Establishing Interim Arrangements for a Global Commercial 

Communications Satellite System", establishes the principle that a single commer - 

cia1 system should be set up forthwith, that it be expanded to provide world coverage 

as soon as possible and that it be open to all nations on a non-discriminatory basis. 

The second agreement, called the "Special Agreement" includes definitions, 

operating procedures, financial arrangements, etc. and the recognition of the 

113 
Communications Satellite Corporation as manager of the system. 

currently with the Agreement Establishing Interim Arrangements. 

Its term runs conR EGU LA TOR Y A CTIVIT IE S 

In authorizing the EARLY BIRD program in April 1964, the Commission approved 

the application of the Communications Satellite Corporation for two satellites, each 

with a ca pacity of 240 2-way voice channels. 

be positioned in nearly equatorial orbit over the Atlantic Ocean and will be capable 

of providing voice, record, and TV communications between the United States and 

Canada and We stern Europe. 

At least one of the satellites is to 

In July 1964 Commission authorized the Corporation to lease the AT&T earth station 

at Andover, Maine, and to make the necessary modifications to adapt the station for 

use in the EARLY BIRD program. Also, in July, the Corporation was authorized to 

modify the existing antenna of the Naval Missile Center, Point Mugu, California, 

so that the Olympic Games in Tokyo could be relayed by television via SYNCOM I11 

positioned over the Pacific Ocean. 

distribution to TV networks in this country and in Canada. European broadcasters 

made arrangements to have the programs recorded on tape and the tapes transported 

by jet aircraft across the Atlantic. 

Olympic programming was made available for 

The Communications Satellite Corporation, in August 1964, filed a petition which 

requests the Commission to institute a rule -making proceeding looking toward the 

adoption of a rule which would limit the ownership and operation of the initial U. S. 

terminal stations to the Corporation. The Commission asked for comments in 

support of or in opposition to the petition and received replies from eight parties, 

seven in opposition. 

now has the matter under consideration. 

The Corporation replied to these comments on October 26 and 

Cornorate Financing and Issuance of Stock 

The Commission is required to approve all borrowing and all issuance of stock by 

the Corporation except the initial issue. 

borrow money for operating and development expenses, which loans were repaid 

from the initial stock issue. 

It was necessary that the Corporation 

The Communications Satellite Act provides that no more than 50% of the stock in the 

Corporation may be owned by communications common carriers who are authorized 

by the Commission to hold such stock. 

to such authorization and to date has received and granted over 200 such applications. 

Prior to the issuance of stock by the Corporation, representatives of the Commission 

and the Corporation agreed on an allocation formula to be used in the event of an 

oversubscription by the carriers. 

5000 shares or less would be filled and that in the event of an oversubscription, only 

the larger subscriptions would be reduced. 

received ranging from 5 to 4, 250,000 shares. 

American Telephone and Telegraph Company was reduced under the allocation 

formula to 2,895, 750 shares. 

of the remaining 50% of the stock to the American public, the underwriters and the 

stock brokers distributing shares of the initial issue were required to agree that 

they would not sell in allotments of more than 50 shares to each customer. Public 

The Commission established rules relating 

The formula provided that all subscriptions of 

A total of 163 subscriptions were 

The latter subscription made by the 

In order to encourage the widest possible distribution 

114 
. demand for the stock was very high. 

shares closely andhas monitored U. S. and foreign ownership. 

The Commission has followed the trading of 

Procurement Policies and Actions 

The Communications Satellite Act requires the Commission to insure effective 

competition and equitable opportunity in the procurement by the Corporation and 

communications common carriers for apparatus, equipment, and services required 

for the communications satellite system and satellite terminal stations. 

Commission adopted rules and regulations on January 8, 1964, to establish procedures to carry out its statutory responsibilities. Since that date, the Commission 

has reviewed procurement procedures involved in seven prime contracts and five 

major subcontracts with an aggregate value of approximately $15 million and $1. 3 

million, respectively. Approximately 80% of the dollars awarded were through 

competitive negotiations and bidding. 

in every major area of the country were solicited before the awards were made. 

These contracts and subcontracts involved the EARLY BIRD system; Basic Design 

Study Contracts looking towards the establishment of a basic communications 

satellite system in 1967-68; the lease and modification of satellite terminal stations 

at Andover, Maine and Point Mugu, California - for EARLY BIRD and the 1964 

Japanese Olympics, respectively. 

The 

Some different firms including small business 

ALLOCATION OF FREQUENCIES FOR SPACE 

COMMUNICATION AND RADIO ASTRONOMY 

During the latter part of 1963, the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) 

held a frequency allocation conference, Extraordinary Administrative Radio Conference (EARC), to consider frequency allocations for space radio communication 

purposes and radio astronomy. 

of spectrum space in the 1,000- 10,000 Mc/ s band to the Communication-Satellite 

service, 2000 Mc/s of which is immediately useful to the United States; however, 

all except 100 Mc/s of the 2800 Mc/s of spectrum space must be shared with 

terre stria1 radio services, principally line -of - sight radio relay networks. 

Commission has been participating in the interagency activity necessary to implement 

the space frequency allocations domestically. 

sion's Rules are expected to be completed before the treaty comes into force in 

January 1965. 

The Conference designated approximately 2800 Mc/ s 

The 

Necessary changes in the CommisConsiderable work remains before the spectrum space designated for the purpose 

can be used most effectively. Agreement is necessary on how the allocated bands 

will be subdivided for use by particular space systems or sub-systems. 

technical criteria1 for sharing of frequencies between the communication satellite 

service and terrestrial radio services are only provisional. Preparatory work is 

going forward in this area in connection with international meetings scheduled to be 

held in calendar years 1965 and 1966 by the International Radio Consultative 

Committee (CCIR) of the ITU. 

Also, 

SOME TECHNICAL ASPECTS OF SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS 

Experiments with TELSTAR I1 have continued during the past year and operations 

in all phases of the program have proved to be entirely satisfactory. 

latter part of the year detailed planning for the EARLY BIRD project was completed. 

During the 

115 
Frequencies in the 6 Gc/s band will be used for transmission from the earth to the 

satellite and frequencies in the 4 Gc/s band will be used for transmission from the 

satellite to earth. 

and are consistent with all the allocation of frequency bands for space radiocommunications as adopted at the Extraordinary Administrative Radio Conference 

(EARC) in Geneva, 1963. 

an international conference attended by all EARLY BIRD (HS- 303) participants. 

These are the same frequency bands that are used for TELSTAR 

The actual operating frequencies were selected during 

As it often happens during the development of a new technique or system, there are 

inherent difficulties which must be overcome or reduced to tolerant levels. 

phone communication via satellite is no exception. 

TeleUnder auspices of FCC, a series of tests has been conducted in order to determine 

to what extent time-delay and echo effects will prove objectionable and what techniques may be employed to minimize these effects. The tests have not been 

completed as yet but have led to the design of an improved echo suppressor. 

tional tests will be conducted during the experimental phase of the EARLY BIRD 

pro gram. 

AddiCONGRESSIONAL HEARINGS 

On April 14, the Chief of the Common Carrier Bureau and other members of the 

Commission's staff, appeared before the Military Operations Subcommittee of 

the Committee on Government Operations, House of Representatives, and testified 

regarding the then current discussions between Secretary of Defense, acting as 

executive agent for the National Communication System, and the Communications 

Satellite Corporation. The hearings were held primarily for the purpose of reviewing government operations in the field of satellite communications, but considerable 

testimony was received in an attempt to determine whether the Corporation could, 

as part of its projected commercial system, meet the special needs of the NCS. 

AERONAUTICAL DEVELOPMENTS 

The Commission prescribes the manner and conditions under which frequencies may 

be assigned for aeronautical telecommunications purposes such as flight test communications and telemetry functions used in the development and production of air - 

carft, missiles, rockets, and satellites; and also assigns frequencies to aircraft 

radio stations, aeronautical enroute, radio navigation, flight test, aeronautical 

advisory and to other stations which all together compromise the aeronautical radio 

services. 

Domestic use of high frequency air-ground communications in the 48 contiguous 

United States was being discontinued rapidly during 1964 as more VHF facilities 

were provided. It is planned that domestic operations on the aeronautical high 

frequencies will not be permitted in these states on a regular basis after January 1, 

1965. Both HF and VHF are expected to be required in Alaska, Hawaii and the 

U. S. island possessions, however, for at least the next several years. In the meantime, use of satellites is now under consideration as one of the possible methods of 

relieving some of the communications channel loading on existing facilities, par - 

ticularly on long over-water air routes. 

116 
The first of a two part Aeronautical Extraordinary Administrative Radio Conference 

(EARC) of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) met in Geneva during 

January and February of 1964 to consider revision of the Frequency Allotment Plan 

for the Aeronautical Mobile Service and related provisions of the Radio Regulations. 

Actual revision of the frequency plan is scheduled to be completed at the Second 

Session in 1966. 

The Commission's type acceptance program for transmitters used by stations in the 

Aviation Services reached its climax at the end of 1964. 

117 
INTRODUCTION 

USJA, which supports U. S. foreign policy objectives by influencing public attitudes 

abroad, had more than enough to work with in carrying the U. S. space story to world 

audiences . 

In 1964, two U. S. spacecraft produced what may be the most remarkable pictures 

ever taken by man -- the first close-ups of the moon's surface, and the first cloudcover pictures of the dark side of the earth. 

Also, the United States moved closer to its goal of a manned lunar landing, launched 

new and more advanced scientific satellites, extended communication by satellite to 

Japan, moved to form an international communications satellite organization, and 

enlarged international cooperation in tracking networks, space applications, and 

space programs. 

From Washington and its 228 foreign posts the USJA staff used radio broadcasting, 

the press , motion pictures, television, libraries, exhibits, personal contacts, wall 

newspapers, and cartoon strips to make U.S. space accomplishments known to 

foreign nations. 

In the 106 countries where the U. S. Information Service operates, the space events 

of the year were translated for local newspapers and magazines, transmitted to the 

scientific , educational, and governmental communities, and placed on local radio, 

motion pictures, and television. 

The Agency acted with special dispatch to document one of the most significant space 

achievements of the year, the moon pictures of RANGER VII. USLA-produced photoposters of RANGER results were being placed on walls abroad within a week, while 

a television special, a pamphlet, and NASA-produced films telling the RANGER 

story were distributed abroad within a few weeks. 

GUIDELINES 

In covering U. S. space events in 1964, USIA employed these guidelines: 

a. the United States is developing a broad space capability to provide 

leadership in all vital areas of space, and to make the United States 

the leading spacefaring nation. 

b. the United States stands for peaceful employment of outer space, 

emphasizing such space adaptations as weather reporting and space 

communications, which produce common benefits, and technical 

119 
assistance to other countries, which advances a common technology. 

c. international cooperation in space is a cornerstone of U.S. policy. 

During the past year the United States has reached a second memorandum of understanding with the Soviet Union with regard to areas of 

space cooperation. At the United Nations, a declaration on legal 

principles with regard to outer space was adopted, and the United 

States is working for a convention regarding assistance to, and the 

return of, astronauts and space vehicles, and liability for damage 

from space objects. 

ASSETS 

The Agency accented these key positive factors of the U.S. space program: 

Sources of Leadership 

U.S. leadership in space stems from a program that is fast-paced, orderly, and 

broadly conceived, and which through a variety of programs seeks to accumulate 

data that will satisfy human needs, benefit science, and be available to all. 

Space Sharing 

The United States shares its research in space, and cooperates in building space 

programs through working partnerships with 69 countries. 

Putting Space to Work 

The United States emphasizes putting space to practical use, through such direct 

applications of space technology as communications, weather, geodesy, and navigation satellites. 

Visible to All 

U. S. manned space launchings are conducted in full view of the world community, 

and data is distributed as soon as it is available. The world knows what the United 

States has in space capability, and it is visible to all; the same is not true of the 

So vi et Union. 

PROBLEM AREA 

Efforts to project abroad a favorable image of U. S. space activities were hampered 

by one factor particularly: 

Soviet Manned Flight 

The flight of the multi-passenger space ship VOSKHOD demonstrated a continuing 

Soviet ability to mount manned flights on a scale surpassing that of the U.S. The 

capacity of the Soviets to launch larger spacecraft in manned flight remained the 

negative factor affecting foreign opinion of U. S. space activities. 

120 
USIA TREATMENT 

U. S. Manned Flight 

Because of the absence of manned flight this year, Agency media treated preparations for upcoming activity. Astronaut training, development of GEMINI and 

APOLLO hardware and test facilities, SATURN I test firings, and other steps leading towards resumption of manned flight in 1965 were given full coverage. 

Communications Satellite Demonstrations 

The use of communications satellites as an instrument of foreign policy was emphasized in Agency treatment. 

broadcasts. USIS Tokyo completed arrangements with Tokyo officials for the first 

television broadcast from Japan to the United States; a taped message from Premier 

Ikeda and both live and filmed scenes of Tokyo and Olympic preparations were sent 

over RELAY II. 

United States was carried by RELAY II. The same satellite was used in a sound 

broadcast to inaugurate the new Spanish ground station at Orinon, with exchanges 

between Spanish and American officials, Voice of America Spanish news by satellite, 

and reports from Madrid correspondents of Spanish newspapers in return. 

SYNCOM 111 satellite was inaugurated with a telecast from Japan to the United 

States showing the Olympic Games, and an exchange of greetings between the 

Japanese Foreign Minister, President Johnson and Secretary Rusk. 

USIA has responsibility for coordinating inauguration 

Similarly the first television exchange between Japan and the 

The 

NIMBUS 

The achievements of NIMBUS, though short-lived, were given specially heavy cover - 

age. NIMBUS photographs, including first night-time cloud cover pictures, were 

widely distributed. The APT, or Automatic Picture Transmission capacity of the 

satellite, was emphasized in the dozen countries which received NIMBUS-transmitted 

pictures by this method. The role of TIROS and the U.S. Weather Satellite Center in 

world weather reporting was covered on a continuing basis. 

RANGER and MARINER 

RANGER VI1 results were given heavy play. Five features were distributed in advance, two more after the flight. 

posts, with photos and layouts going by air to the three regional service centers at 

Manila, Beirut, and Mexico City for pamphlet printings in English, French, Arabic, 

and Spanish, and other languages. Pictures went by airmail: 29 picture subjects -- each photo subject involving the servicing of 200 prints and 80 negatives for 80 posts 

The Government Printing Office rushed through 1, 200 photo posters that were airmailed, with materials for printing following, to the Regional Service Centers for 

separate language versions. 

The Wireless File carried pamphlet text to all 

The flight of MARINER IV to Mars was being given detailed, continuous treatment. 

121 
ASSISTANCE TO NEWS MEDIA 

Press and Publications 

For Agency media, the space program and space science are major themes in the 

news that demonstrate U. S. scientific leadership. Space launches given repeated 

attention by Press and Publications Branch included RANGER VI and VII, 

SYNCOM 111, SATURN, NIMBUS, ORBITING GEOPHYSICAL OBSERVATORY, 

RELAY 11, ECHO 11, and RADIATION TEST SATELLITES, with the Wireless File 

carrying a space science story of some kind every other day during the year. 

Feature Section turned out 46 space science features, each illustrated, as well as 

12 "Science Today" columns covering space, 30 space items in the monthly "Science 

Notes", and 14 space items in the "What's New in Science" column. Photo servicing 

on space subjects was heavy. 

and satellites in the "It's a Fact" cartoon series, used in hundreds of newspapers 

overseas. 

carried the major space launches of the year. 

The 

Graphics Section produced two panels on astronauts 

The Photo Bulletin, a monthly offset offering photos that can be ordered, 

Television 

IIBeyond the Sky", a half-hour documentary in color showing preparations for 

GEMIM and APOLLO, was completed by the Television Branch; it will be exhibited 

next year. 

rushed through in English and four language versions, and distributed to 61 countries. 

In "Science Report", a fortnightly 15-minute news review of the American science 

world, distributed in 53 countries in English, Spanish and Portuguese, and a fourth 

"Music and Effects" version adaptable to any local narrator, space events were 

treated consistently and in depth. 

A 15-minute documentary feature, tlRomance with the Moon", was 

Radio 

The Voice of America covered all space events of the year, plus developments in 

space science. Special events received detailed coverage. 

Motion Pictures 

Major space developments were brought to foreign film audiences through newsreels 

distributed by the Film Branch. 

and other space subjects were also distributed abroad. 

NASA films on RANGER progress, on manned flight, 

Exhibits 

One of the original Mercury capsules, "Sigma 7", continued to draw crowds. Displayed by USIS in five Japanese cities, it was seen by 750,000 people. In addition, 

the Agency used scale models of MERCURY capsules, the TIROS satellite, and 

exhibits on GEMINI, SYNCOM, and "U.S. Progress in Space" to carry the story into 

communities abroad. 

The U. S. -U. S. S. R. exchange exhibit, I'Communications USA", shown in the Soviet 

Union in Leningrad, Kiev, and Moscow, included a TELSTAR demonstration, and 

models of SY NCOM, TIROS, MARINER, ORBITING SOLAR OBSERVATORY, 

ALOUETTE, RELAY, and EXPLORER. The exhibit averaged a daily attendance of 

12,000 persons and was seen by 342,777 persons. USlA worked closely with NASA 

122 
in carrying out these and other exhibit activities. 

Librarv Centers 

Original and special space materials, including NASA reports, Congressional 

documents, and commercially produced books and publications were made available 

to foreign audiences through the 178 libraries, 66 reading rooms, and 148 binational 

centers maintained by the Library Center Service. 

USIA AND NASA 

The relationship between NASA and USIA is one of mutual support and cooperation. 

Staff officers of both agencies work together to select photographs, set up exhibits, 

distribute NASA materials, and publicize space events and developments. NASA 

press materials are distributed abroad through USIA's Science Writers Service, 

going to 516 newspapermen, scientists, and government officials, on a continuing 

basis. 

To carry the space story to the people -- in hamlets, back areas, and smaller 

cities - - NASA has supplied Spacemobiles (automobiles carrying spacecraft models 

and space experiments), attended by NASA-trained lecturers. 

now in Latin America, another has completed its work in India and is en route to 

New Zealand, while a fifth has been working in Spain. 

officers carrying their own spacecraft models and materials have been working in 

English-speaking Africa and French- speaking Africa. 

Three of these are 

Two NASA-trained USIA 

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UNITED STATES LAUNCHING RECORD 

Earth Satellite Attempts Escape Payload Attempts 

Year Success Failure Success Failure 

1957 ................. 0 1 0 0 

1958 ................. 5 8 0 4 

1959 ................. 9 9 1 2 

1960 ................. 16 12 1 2 

1961 ................. 35 12 0 2 z: 

1962 ................. 54 12 4 1 

1963 ................. 60 11 0 0 

1964 ................. 69 8 4 0 

Total. ........ 248 73 10 11 

Notes: 

1. Information contained in this table is drawn from unclassified sources and is 

believed to be complete and accurate in keeping with the definitions given below. 

2. 

or sent to the Moon or into solar orbit. 

payload. 

are counted individually even though in a limited number of cases such separation 

failed to occur. 

earth to accomplish some specific research or application purpose and to return data 

to Earth. Typically, a payload transmits telemetry, but not always (e. g. ECHO 

which carried only a radio beacon). 

but limited data return incidental to putting up a payload does not classify these as 

payloads in their own right. 

Numbers are given in terms of identified separate payloads placed in Earth orbit 

A few launchings have put up more than one 

If these payloads were intended to separate from each other in flight, they 

A payload is defined as an object put into orbit or sent away from the 

Some rocket casings may carry radio beacons, 

3. 

of attaining Earth orbit, or escape to the Moon or solar orbit as appropriate to the 

column indicated. 

data as planned; other payloads failed to reach orbit or escape, yet returned useful 

data at least briefly. 

The sole criterion of success or failure used for the purpose of this table is that 

Some payloads reached orbit or escaped without returning as much 

4. 

reference to multiple payloads) are the same as given above except in the Earth orbital 

category for 1959 (8 failures), 1960 (15 successes and 11 failures), 1961 (29 successes), 

1962 (48 successes and 6 failures), 1963 (38 successes and 8 failures), 1964 (52 successes and 7 failures), making totals of 196 orbital launch successes, 10 escape 

launch successes, 61 orbital launch failures, and 11 escape launch failures, for a 

grand total of 276 launch attempts (2 escape failures were orbital successes). 

The corresponding data for number of launchings attempted (the count without 

5. 

payload launched by the United States. 

launch success from U. S. territory, accomplished in 1964. 

<<These failed to go to escape as intended, but did attain Earth orbit and are in those 

totals. 

Data quoted include 2 U. S. payloads with British experiments, one Canadian 

They do not include one Italian earth orbital 

NASC Staff 

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a, 

.r( d b 

+ 

2 

.d 

m 

c, 

.r( 

2 

*E 

E: 

M d 

ld 

a, 

a, UI d 

W 

0 

k 

c, 

m 

d 

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c, 

155 
SPACE ACTIVITIES OF THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT 

Historical Summary and 1966 Budget Recommendations January 25, 1965 

NEW OBLIGATIONAL AUTHORITY 

(In millions of dollars) 

Historical 

1955 

1956 

1957 

1958 

1959 

1960 

196 1 

1962 

1963 

L964 

1966 Budget 

1965 

1966 

NASA Dept. of 

Total %ace 1 / Defense 

56.9 

72. 7 

78. 2 

117.3 

338.9 

523.6 

966.7 

1824.9 

3673.0 

5100.0 

56. 9 3.0 

72. 7 30.3 

78. 2 71.0 

117.3 205.6 

268.9 489.5 

461.5 560.9 

928.7 813.9 

1796.8 1298.2 

3626.0 1548.1 

5046.6 1604.1 

5250.0 5179.8 1546.7 

5260.0 5181.6 1670.2 

Weather Total 

AEC - Bureau - NSF Space 

- - - 

7.0 7.3 

21.3 - 8.4 

21.3 - 3.3 

34.3 - - 

43.3 - .1 

67.7 - .6 

147.8 50.7 1.3 

213.9 43.2 1.5 

210.0 2. 8 3.0 

59.9 

117.3 

178.9 

347.9 

792.7 

1065.8 

1810.9 

3294.8 

5432.7 

6866.5 

236.0 15.4 3.1 6984.0 

225.2 33.1 3.8 7113.9 

1/ Excludes amounts for aircraft technology in 1959 and succeeding years. 

Source: Bureau of the Budget 

Amounts 

for N;"ISA-NACA aircraft and space activities not separately identifiable prior to 1959. 

U.S. SPACE BUDGET - NEW OBLIGATIONAL AUTHORITY BILLIONS OF DOLLARS 

8.0 

6. 7.0 

6.0 

7 n- 1.8>& 

5.0 

4. 0 

3. 0 

-. - 

1. 0 1. 0 1. 0 I I 

1961 1962 1963 1964 

7.0 

- 

- 

5. 2 - 

- 

1965 

7. 1 

0.2 OTHER 

-DEFENSE 

1 5.2 E 

I! 

L 

1966 

REQUEST 

JAN. 25. 1965 

NASC STAFF 

Appendix E-1 156 
SPACE ACTIVITIES OF THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT 

Historical Summarv and 1966 Budget Recommendations Januarv 25. 1965 

Historical 

I955 

1956 

1957 

1958 

1959 

1960 

1961 

1962 

1963 

1964 

EXPENDITURES 

(In millions of dollars) 

NASA Dept. of Weather Total 

Total -- Space I/ Defense AEC Bureau Space 

73.8 73. 8 1.5 - - 

71. 1 71. 1 16.5 6.3 - 

76. 1 76. 1 47. 5 19. 2 - 

89.2 89. 2 135.5 20.2 - 

145.6 58. 8 341.0 32.6 - 

401.0 329.2 518. 1 41.1 - 

744.3 693.6 710.0 64.3 - 

1, 257. 0 1, 225. 9 1, 028.8 130.0 1.0 

2, 552.3 2,516. 8 1, 367.5 181.0 12.2 

4, 171.0 4, 131. 3 1,563.5 220. 1 12. 3 

- 75.3 

6.2 100.1 

7.3 150. 1 

4.0 248.9 

1.5 433.9 

888.4 

- 1,467.9 

.9 2,386.6 

1. 1 4,078.6 

2.6 5,929.8 

1966 Budget 

1965 4,900.0 4, 837. 3 1,570.0 231.2 15.0 3.0 6,656.5 

1966 5, 100.0 5, 031. 5 1,610.0 227.9 16.6 3.6 6,889.6 

1 / Excludes amounts for aircraft technology in 1959 and succeeding years. Amounts 

for NASA-NACA aircraft and space activities not separately identifiable prior to 1959. 

Source: Bureau of the Budget. 

- 

U.S. SPACE BUDGET - EXPENDITURES BILLIONS OF DOLLARS 

8.0 

7. 0 

6.0 

5. 0 

4. 0 

3.0 

2. 0 

1. 0 

1966 

REQUEST 

1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 

JAN. 25. 1965 

NASC STAFF 

157 Appendix E-2 
SPACE ACTIVITIES BUDGET 

1966 Budget Document 

(January 25, 1965 

(In millions of dollars) 

New Obligational Authority Expenditures 

1964 1965 1966 1964 1965 1966 

(Actual) (Estimated) (Actual) (Estimated) 

Federal Space Program 

NASA* ..................... 5046.6 5179.8 5181.6 4131.3 4837.3 5031.5 

Department of Defense.. . . . . . 1604.1 1546.7 1670.2 1563.5 1570.0 1610.0 

Atomic Energy Commission. . 210.0 236.0 225.2 220.1 231.2 227.9 

Department of Commerce: 

Weather Bureau. . . . . . . . . . 2.8 15.4 33. 1 12. 3 15.0 16.6 

National Science Foundation.. . 3.0 3.1 3.8 2.6 3.0 3.6 

TOTAL 6866.5 6981.0 7113.9 5929.8 6656.5 6889.6 

NASA 

Manned space flight.. . . . . . 3456.7 3476.5 3587.5 2767.7 3084.5 3386.3 

Scientific investigations.. . 686.3 701.8 730.3 641.2 692.8 702.7 

Space applications. . . . . . . . 118.1 93.2 114. 1 112.4 110.3 106.6 

Space technology.. . . . . . . . 486.6 451.2 399.7 431.9 509.8 444.4 

Air craft technology. . . . . . . 53.4 70. 2 78.4 39.7 62. 7 68. 5 

Supporting activities. . . . . . 40 1.0 384.3 350.0 178.1 439.9 391.5 

Adjusted to appropriation. -102.0 t 72.8 - 

Total 

~ ~~ ~~ ~ ~ ~ 

5100.0 5250.0 5260.0 4171.0 4900.0 5100.0 

*Excludes amounts for aircraft technology. 

Source: Bureau of the Budget 

Appendix E-3 158 
INDEX 

Advanced Manned Strategic 

AEROBEE 78 

Aeronautics 31, 41, 50, 51,60, 

Aerospace Medical Div. 

AGENA 10, 11,24, 34, 41, 56,66 

ALOUETTE 36 

Ames Research Center 9 

Anti-Satellite System 3, 45 

Aircraft (AMSA) 50 

92 

Brooks AFB 15 

APOLLO 3, 4, 5, 9,10,11-18,42, 

48, 73 83,85,91, 92,94, 95 122 

ARIELIII 1,4,19, 36 

ASSET 4, 54, 55 

Astronauts 10, 94 

ATLAS 2, 11, 21, 24, 25, 33 

Atomic Energy Commission 15, 

Automatic Picture Transmission 

24,28,29,63-67 

(APT) 22, 36, 81, 82, 121 

Baker-Nunn cameras 72, 80,99, 

BEACON 37,46, 57,91 

Bioastronautics 9, 21, 26, 97 

Biosatellites 21 

British Committee on Space 

Research 36 

100,101,102 

C-141 A 53,111 

Canadian Defence TelecommuniCELOSCOPE,Project 10 1 

CENTAUR 3,21, 24,25,99 

Central Radio Propagation 

Cerro Tololo Inter American 

Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) 92 

cations Es tablishrnent 36 

Laboratory 90 

Observatory 78 

Communications Satellites (See 

TIROS, SYNCOM, RELAY, ECHO) 

Communications Satellite Corp. 5, 72, 

114 

Cryogenics 89 

CX-HLS 9 

Defense, Dept. of 3, 10, 11, 14, 24, 

DELTA (See THOR) 

41-62, 91,92, 93, 95, 103 

EARLYBIRD 4, 113, 114,115,116 

ECHO 4,24, 25, 71, 122 

Electronics 27 

Ellington AFB 9 

European Space Research Org. 

(ESRO) 36,38 

Eyobiology 22, 97 

EXPLORER 4, 18, 19, 33, 36, 59,99,122 

Extraordinary Adminis tratiP.e Radio 

Conference on Space Communications 

71 

F-1 Engine 3, 10 

F-5 9 

F-111A 4, 41, 50, 51 

Federal Aviation Agency 32,103- 1 11 

Federal Communications Commission 

FIRE, Project 4 

French National Center for Space 

113-1 16 

Studies 36 

GEMINI 5, 9, 10-12, 34, 41, 42, 61, 72, 

83, 85,95, 121, 122 

46, 59 

Satellite System 69-71, 11 3 

Geodetic Satellite Program 5, 18, 45, 

Global Commerical Communications 

Goddard Space E’light Center 37, 64,79 

Coast and Geodetic Survey 79,86-87 

Commerce, Dept. of 57, 81 -93,110 60 

Concorde 92 

Counterinsurgency Aircraft (COIN) 53 Helicopters 51, 52, 11 1 

Communications, Defense Satellite Hurlburt, E. 0. Center for Space 

Gravity Gradient Stabilization 57, 58 

Program 3,43,44,60 Research 78 

159 
IMP 4,19 

International Cooperation 2, 3, 18, 

International Committee on Space 

International Year of the Quiet Sun 

Ionospheric Research Program (ISIS) 

Italian Satellite (S ee SAN MARCO) 

35-37, 69-75, 97, 119 

Research (COSPAR) 90,95,97,100 

(IQSY) 79,80,90 

36 

Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) 9 

Jodrell Bank 37, 71 

JUPITER 18, 78, 79 

Kennedy, Cape 10,16,83, 87,92 

Kingsport, USNS 31 

Kitt Peak National Observatory 77, 78, 

KIWI 29,66 

80 

Langley Research Center 40,100, 110 

Lewis Research Center 9 

Life Sciences (See Bioastronautics) 

LITTLE JOE 48 

Lunar Excursion Model (LEM) 

Lunar Orbiter 21 

11 - 18 

Madagascar 72 

Manned Orbiting Laboratory (MOL) 

Manned Spacecraft Center (MSC) 

MARINER 2,20,21,24,25,35,121 

MARS 2, 18, 20, 21, 22, 97, 102, 121 

Marshall Space Flight Center 9 

Materials 25, 57 

Medicine, Space 9, 21, 26, 97 

MERCURY 10, 72, 122 

Merritt Island Launch Area 10 

Meteorological Satellite Laboratory 

Michoud Plant, La. 14 

Mississippi Test Facility 9, 85 

Moonwatch 99 

41, 42, 61 

9,62, 85 

(MSL) 84 

National Academy of Sciences 16,22, 

National Aeronautics and Space 

93-97,110 

Administration 3, 9-40, 72, 73, 85, 89, 

91, 93, 97, 99, 110, 122, 123 

Council 5-7 

National Aeronautics and Space 

National Airspace System 103-136 

National Bureau of Standards 33, 87-92 

National Meteorological Center 82, 86 

National Operational Meteorological 

National Radio Astronomy Observatory 

National Range Division 47 

National Science Foundation 77-80, 90 

National Standard Reference Data 

National Weather SateLLite Center 8 1 

Naval Research Laboratmy 57, 58, 79 

Navigational Satellites 3, 41, 46, 60 

NERVA 29,67 

NIMBUS 3, 5, 22, 23, 36, 64, 66, 81,82,83 

Nuclear Test Ban Treaty 1 

Nuclear Detection Satellites (VELA) 

Satellite System (NOMSS) 64 

77 

System 88 

3, 41, 45 

Olympics, 1964 5, 74, 75, 114, 121 

Operational Meteorological Satellites 

Orbiting Astronautical Observatory 

Orbiting Geophysical Observatory 

Orbiting Solar Observatory (OSO) 102 

(OMS) 81-86 

(OAO) 101 

(OGO) 2, 19,24, 36,91,122 

Pacific Missile Range (PMR) 48 

PEGASUS 13 

PHOEBUS 66 

PIONEER 21 

PLUTO 63 

Pt. Mugu, Calif. 74 

Propulsion, chemical 1, 27 

Propulsion, electrical 1, 30, 55 

Propulsion, nuclear 2, 3, 5, 28 

Propulsion, solid 1, 4, 28, 46, 47, 54 

Radar, Over the Horizon 3, 54 

RANGER 1, 2, 5, 9, 20, 24, 35, 83, 97, 

119,122 

RELAY 3,4,23,44, 75,121,122 

ROVER 63.66 

S-66 91 

SAN MARCO 1,4, 19, 20, 35,36 

SATURN I 1, 3, 5, 10, 11, 14, 33, 83, 91, 

SATURN IB 

92,94 

10, 11,14, 17, 21 

160 
SATURN V 

SCANNER, Project 48 

SCAT 31 

SCOUT 19,24, 35 

Seal Beach, Calif. 10 

Short Airfield Tactical Support 

Smithsonian Institution 99- 103 

Smithsonian Institution Astrophysical 

Observatorv 34, 73, 99-103 

10, 11, 14, 16, 17, 21 

(SATS) 54 

SNAP 54, 63-55 

Soviet Union (USSR) 

Soviet Academy of Sciences 

Sounding Rockets 37, 38 

Space Power Equipment 30 

Space Detection and Tracking 

System (SPADATS) 49 

Space Science Board 93-97 

SPACETRACK 49 

SPASUR 49 

START 54 

State, Dept. of 69-75 

STRATOSCOPE I1 78, 79 

SURVEYOR 21, 60, 64 

Supersonic Transport (SS T) 

SYNCOM 

2, 5, 69, 70, 119 

24, 37, 69, 

71 

31, 92, 109, 110 

99, 114, 122 

1,2, 3, 5, 9,23, 24, 37,44, 75,- 

TRADEPOST 44 

TELSTAR 23,44, 11 5 

THOR 

TITAN I1 41 

TORY IIC 63 

Tiros Operational Satellite System 

Tracking and Data Acquisition 34, 37 

21, 24, 25, 55, 61 

TITAN IIIA 3, 21, 41-44, 6!I,87 

TIROS 3, 9, 22,23, 64, 81-83, 121 

(TOS) 23,83 

United Nations 5,69-71, 119 

United States Information Agency 

USSR 2, 5, 69, 70, 119 

119-123 

VELA 3, 4, 41, 45, 67 

Venus 18, 20. 102 

VOYAGER 22 

V/STOL 30, 51, 52 

Wallops Island 5, 35, 36, 65 

Weather Bureau 34,64, 71,79, 81-84, 103 

WEST FORD 44,45,97 

Wheeling, USNS 48 

White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) 

World Meteorological Organization 

11, 48 

(WMO) 69, 85, 86 

X-15 4, 5, 32, 51 

X-21A 53 

XB-70 4, 41, 50, 60 

XF-12A 4, 41, 50, 51 

Zanzibar 72 

161 GSA DC 65- 99 11