Jul 14 1971
From The Space Library
Apollo 15 completed final practice countdown at KSC in preparation for launch to moon July 26. (Wilford, NYT, 7/15/71, 16)
Discovery of hydroxyl molecule in interstellar dust between stars of M-82 and NGG-253 galaxies 97 billion km (60 billion mi) from earth by use of big dish radio telescopes, was reported by Dr. Leonid N. Weliachew, visiting fellow at Cal Tech from Meudon Observatory in France. Discovery implied that chemical evolution was proceeding throughout universe. Hydroxyl was considered a chemical essential to evolution of life. (LATNS, W Post, 7/15/71, A3; B Sun, 7/19/71)
MSFC announced award of $250 000, 10-mo, "phase A" contract to NR Space Div. to study feasibility of developing low-cost, reusable, chemical-propulsion stage that could be launched from earth on space shuttle booster and refueled in space for up to 10 missions. Vehicle could be used for high-lift capability to low earth orbit, for placing large pay-loads in geosynchronous orbit, and for lunar and unmanned planetary missions. (MSFC Release 71-120)
MSC announced award of three seven-month, firm, fixed-price contracts for development of new surface materials for space shuttle orbiter stage. McDonnell Douglas Corp. would receive $325 000; GE Aerospace Group, $319 200; and Lockheed Missiles and Space Co., $322 500. (MSC Release 71-50)
Sen. Hubert H. Humphrey (D-Minn.) and Sen. Edmund S. Muskie (D- Me.) proposed U.S. and U.S.S.R. freeze deployment of nuclear weapons while they sought agreement to control strategic arms at SALT. Joint proposal was made during hearings of Senate Committee on Foreign Relations' Subcommittee on Arms Control. (Finney, NYT, 7/15/71, 1)
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