Apr 28 1967
From The Space Library
USAF Titan III-C booster launched from ETR successfully orbited five unmanned satellites : two Vela nuclear detection satellites and three scientific satellites, Ers-XVIII, Ers-XX, and Ers-XXVII. The 508-lb Velas-improved versions of six Vela payloads previously launched-entered initial elliptical orbits with 69,000-mi (96,642-km) apogee and 5,400-mi (8,690-km) perigee. On April 29, orbit of one Vela was circularized at 69,000-mi (96,642-km) altitude; orbit of second would be circularized May 1. Designed to operate at least 18 mo in orbit, Vela satellites were part of DOD's Vela program to monitor space for violations of nuclear test ban treaty. The 14-and 20-lb scientific satellites contained scientific and engineering experiments to (1) investigate effects of vacuum on characteristics of 16 metals, (2) monitor radiation of Van Allen belts, and (3) measure solar radiation. (NYT, 4/29/67, 17; W Post, 4/29/67, A4; Pres Rpt 1967)
Maj. Michael J. Adams (USAF) flew X-15 No. 1 to 167,000-ft altitude and 3,682 mph (mach 5.32) to provide pilot experience at high altitude and check out horizon scanner, horizontal stabilizer alpha, 3rd landing skid, and electrical loads. (X-15 Proj Off)
McDonnell Aircraft Corp. and Douglas Aircraft Co. merged to form McDonnell Douglas Corp., pending Justice Dept. approval. (Av Wk, 4/24/67,35)
Joint application for authority to construct new comsat earth station near Jamesburg, Calif., was filed with FCC by ComSatCorp, ATT , ITT WorldCom, RCA, and WUI. (ComSatCorp Release 67-34)
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