Nov 9 1966
From The Space Library
NASA launched from Wallops Station an Argentine-designed and -produced single-stage solid-fuel Orion II sounding rocket with payload for upper atmosphere research. Reaching altitude of 51 mi., payload was captured by helicopter as it descended by parachute to 2,500 ft., marking Wallops' first such mid-air recovery. Test was second successful Orion II flight in three-flight series which began Nov. 4; Nov. 7 launch failed. Six Argentine engineers and technicians from Aeronautical and Space Research Institute (IIAE) assisted Wallops personnel with launch operations. Arrangements were made by NASA and Argentine Space Commission (CNIE) . (NASA Release 66-291; Wallops Release 66-53)
USAF launched Arcas solid-fuel rocket from Vandenberg AFB to collect information on atmospheric temperature, pressure, and movement above 98,400-ft. altitude. Data collected would be used to plan glide paths of vehicles reentering earth atmosphere. (AP, Phil. Inq., 11 /10)
AFSC announced plans to use seven defense communications satellites, launched from ETR June 16, in series of experiments to gather data for design of improved communications systems between ground stations 5,000 to 6,000 mi. apart. Using specially equipped C-121 communications research aircraft, Air Force Avionics Lab. engineers would test: (1) relay of voice and teletype communications through satellite from either aircraft or ground station; and (2) transmission of airborne meteorological reconnaissance data to the ground via satellite. Signals often would travel 50,000 mi. between terminal points. (AFSC Release 143.66)
State Dept. disclosed that "a very small amount" of radioactivity had leaked into the atmosphere from AEC's Sept. 12 underground nuclear test, but the incident did not violate limited nuclear test ban treaty because no radioactive debris had circulated outside U.S. Disclosure was in response to a Soviet inquiry. (UPI, Wash. Post, 11/10/66, A2)
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