Feb 14 1970
From The Space Library
Electron-bombardment ion engine onboard NASA's Sert II spacecraft, launched Feb. 3, was advanced to full thrust to begin endurance test. During six-month test NASA would evaluate engine performance and engine's 27-millinewton (six-millipound) thrust would increase spacecraft's apogee by about 97 km (60 mi). (NASA Release 70-34)
OSSA Science Steering Committee's Planetary Biology Subcommittee, concerned about validity of Lunar Receiving Laboratory tests on lunar samples and unexplained biological effect of lunar soil on some plants, had recommended continuation of quarantine procedures through Apollo 13 mission, Victor Cohn reported in Washington Post. Subcommittee had strongly opposed Jan. 15 suggestion by Interagency Committee on Back Contamination that quarantine be abandoned and had prompted NASA to ask NAS for reevaluation by a special committee. (W Post, 2/14/70, A5; NASA Exobiology Off)
Prince Philip of Great Britain inspected Apollo 13 rocket during tour of KSC. (UPI, W Post, 2/15/70, A2)
Scientists at Japanese astronomical laboratory discovered new star of seventh magnitude in constellation of Serpens. Later it was upgraded to fifth magnitude as light brightened. (AP, W Post, 2/17/70, A15)
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