May 23 1968
From The Space Library
World's first passive satellite, Echo I, launched by NASA Aug. 12, 1960, reentered earth's atmosphere and disintegrated over southeastern Pacific. Launched as passive communications and air-density research satellite, Echo I also served geodesists determining accurate continental and intercontinental distances. (UPI, W Post, 5/24/68; W News, 5/24/68, 3; Newsweek, 5/27/68; SBD, 5/28/68, 138)
USAF launched unidentified satellite from Vandenberg AFB by Thor-Burner II booster into orbit with 561-mi (902.8-km) apogee, 509-mi (819-km) perigee, 102.1-min period, and 98.9° inclination. (Pres Rpt 68)
Smithsonian Institution scientists positively identified as a meteorite, fist-size black stone which damaged Denver, Colo., warehouse roof in July 1967. It was "first recovered fresh-fall" meteorite in U.S. since Bells, Tex., meteorite Sept. 9, 1961. (Cleveland Plain Dealer, 5/24/68)
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