May 1 1958

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Scientific findings from the two Explorer satellites disclosed an unexpected band of high-intensity radiation extending from 600 miles above earth to possibly an 8,000-mile altitude. The radiation was described by Dr. James A. Van Allen as "1,000 times as intense as could be attributed to cosmic rays."

Responsibility for the Project Vanguard portion of the U.S.-IGY scientific satellite program was transferred from Navy to Advanced Research Project Agency monitorship by the Department of Defense.

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