May 28 1968

From The Space Library

In second Mars lander experiment [see April 23] NASA concluded JPL R&D program demonstrating feasibility of sending lightweight scientific capsules to Mars by successful 250-ft free-fall drop of 63-lb heat-sterilized planetary landing craft from hovering helicopter onto asphalt pavement at Goldstone Tracking Station. Capsule, which struck at 80 mph, or impact of 2,500 g, was powered by 12-cell silver-zinc bat­tery which produced sufficient electricity after impact to extend wind gauge and to operate radio transmitter and timer aboard Mars lander. Battery was believed to be toughest yet developed. (NASA Release 68- 152 ; W Star, 9/8/68, A17; Pasadena Independent Star-News, 9/8/68; NYT, 10/15/68, 34; JPL Lab-Oratory 7/68, 8)

Gen. John P. McConnell, USAF Chief of Staff, was awarded National Ge­ographic Society's Gen. Thomas D. White Space Trophy for 1967 for "effective leadership and direction of U.S. Air Force in development and utilization of aerospace vehicles." Award was presented annually to military or civilian member of USAF who made most outstanding con­tribution to U.S. progress in aerospace. (NGS Release; AP, NY News, 5/29/68, 22)

MSFC announced it had extended for one year $3,647,603 cost-plus award-fee contract held by Management Services, Inc., for technical serv­ices at MSFC. (MSFC Release 68-116)

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