Mar 20 1967
From The Space Library
NASA would use AS-204 booster-an Uprated Saturn I -to launch first Apollo Lunar Module (LM) on unmanned flight in summer 1967 because it was last booster equipped with full research and development instrumentation. Original plans had been to use AS-206 booster. Undamaged during Jan. 27 fire, AS-204 launch vehicle would be moved from Launch Complex 34 to Launch Complex 37, which was equipped for unmanned launches of the LM. AS-206 booster would be stored for use in a subsequent mission. Purpose of first LM mission was to obtain data on ascent and descent propulsion systems, including a restart of the descent system; verify LM structure; and evaluate staging. (NASA Release 67-67)
NASA Associate Administrator for Manned Space Flight Dr. George E. Mueller, in testimony before House Committee on Science and Astronautics' Subcommittee on Manned Space Flight, presented profile of a typical manned Mars mission. "We would launch as we approach the target planet, a series of [unmanned] probes, one would be an orbiter, another would be a Mars surface sample return probe. "There would also be some Lander probes which would provide us with information about the atmosphere and the surface on a continuing basis. All of this would be done in a matter of a few days while one was in the vicinity of the planet. "We would also be carrying out observations of the local environment and conducting an extensive solar observation program and a planetary observation program from various vantage points one attains from an orbit that is far removed from earth." Asked about the alternative of launching an instrumented spacecraft into a long elliptical orbit with two focal points-the earth and Mars-and manning it from earth, Dr. Mueller replied: "The major problem associated with that is that we are talking about a . . . telescope at least forty inches in diameter. It is a quite difficult task and we are reaching a level of complexity when man becomes an essential part of the system. . . ." (Transcript, 180-1)
In the year 2000, space satellites would be identifying soil, assessing crop yield, and determining the extent of disease, drought, or insects, Secretary of Agriculture Orville L. Freeman predicted at National Assn. of Science Teachers' convention in Detroit. "While the farmers of tomorrow study reports in their air-conditioned offices, relieved at last of the physical drudgery and occupational anxiety so traditionally theirs . . . these shining space satellites, equipped with the most sophisticated remote sensing instruments will be supplying the information needed to make key decisions. "Through information gathered by the satellites, the Government will be able to make accurate predictions to guide marketing and distribution of farm products to avoid waste and local shortages and surpluses." (Text, AP, NYT, 3/21/67,34)
MSFC awarded Bendix Corp. $7.4 million cost-plus-award-fee contract for development and production of Apollo Telescope Mount (ATM) pointing control system (PCS) . Bendix was scheduled to produce three units by August. ATM system would permit Apollo astronauts to point a telescope to selected regions of the sun during period of maximum solar flare activities beginning in late 1968. MSFC had awarded American Optical Co. $740,460 contract to build a dynamic simulator for use in developing the PCS. (MSFC Releases 67-54,67-58; NASA Release 67-66)
Tokyo Univ.'s Institute of Space and Aeronautical Science would receive $11 million of Japan's $17.5-million space budget for FY 1967 (April 1967-March 1968), Technology Week reported. The Institute would launch 33 vehicles, including a 150-lb scientific satellite; a Mu 4S rocket; and three Lambda 4s vehicles. Remaining funds would go to the Transport Ministry, Meteorological Agency, and Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications. (Tech Wk, 3/20/67, 13)
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