Apr 14 1974
From The Space Library
Stratospheric contamination from supersonic aircraft engines such as those fitted to the Anglo-French Concorde and the Soviet Tu-144 might lower the earth's mean temperatures, with a catastrophic effect on agriculture, and increase the incidence of skin cancer from over-exposure to ultraviolet radiation, according to a Dept. of Transportation study cited by the Washington Post. In a telephone interview with the Post Dr. Alan Grobecker, manager of DOT's climatic impact assessment program, confirmed the existence of the study, which was based on data collected by satellites, balloons, and instrumented aircraft. He emphasized that the pollution by the emission of nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide would have a worldwide impact because of the capacity of the stratosphere to retain the pollutants for nearly a year. A separate Agricultural Research Service study showed that stratospheric contamination could cut temperate climate crops by 60%. The DOT paper would be considered by committees of the National Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Engineering at a special meeting in July. (Wilson, W Post, 14 April 74, A8)
Appointment of Stephen E. Doyle as NASA'S Deputy Assistant Administrator for International Affairs became effective. Before joining NASA Doyle had been Manager for International Organization Affairs, Office of Telecommunications Policy in the Executive Office of the President `'(NASA Release 74-101)
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