Aug 4 1972
From The Space Library
Space News for this day. (1MB PDF)
Nike-Apache sounding rocket, launched by NASA from Churchill Research Range, carried Goddard Space Flight Center payload to 159-km (98.8-mi) altitude. Objectives were to measure intensity and energy spectra of low-energy protons, helium nuclei, and heavier nuclei during polar cap absorption event; examine relative abundances of charge species; and study changes in intensity with time during event. Rocket and instruments functioned satisfactorily but telemetry signal was sporadic after 150 sec. Payload landed on ground and was recovered. Launch was first of two; second would be Aug. 5. (NASA Rpt SRL)
Manned Spacecraft Center announced award of $92 800 firm-fixed- price contract to General Dynamics Corp. Convair Aerospace Div. to study effect jet thrusters would have on aerodynamics of space shuttle orbiter during reentry. Study would help in determining best configuration for orbiter's reaction control system. (MSC Release 72-173)
American Association for the Advancement of Science was beginning broad new program under National Science Foundation grant to enhance public understanding of scientific enterprise, Science editorial said. Program would include seminars for government officials and managers of mass media, new approach to science on television, critical journal to examine science and mass media, experimental project to interest AAAS members in more collegial activities, and modest re- search program into sources and cures of public misunderstanding of science. (Science, 8/4/72, 391)
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