Jan 2 1959

From The Space Library

U.S.S.R. launched LUNIK I into a solar orbit, with a total weight of a reported 3,245 pounds, the first manmade object placed in orbit around the sun. It was called MECHTA. ("dream") by the Russians.

Defense officials indicated fiscal year 1960 budget would' begin major integration of long-range missiles into weapons arsenal and replacement of manned aircraft on a large scale.