Apr 19 1971
From The Space Library
U.S.S.R. launched unmanned Salyut 1 orbital scientific station from Baikonur into orbit with 269-km (167.2-mi) apogee, 256-km (159.1-mi) perigee, 89.7-min period, and 51.5° inclination. Tass said experiment was designed for "perfecting the elements of the design and the on-board systems and for conducting scientific research and experiments in space." Western speculation, later confirmed [see April 23-25], was that Salyut 1 would dock with manned spacecraft in attempt to establish first manned orbital workshop. (GSFC SSR, 4/30/71; SBD, 4/20/71, 254; Mills, B Sun, 4/20/71, Al)
MSC announced issuance of RFPs for development of human waste collection and storage system for space shuttle orbiter stage. Contractor would receive $90 000, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract under which firm would fabricate for testing one fully functional unit that could be used individually during week-long test by team of three men and one woman. (MSC Release 71-23)
Nike-Apache sounding rocket was launched by NASA from TERLS carrying Indian experiment to study luminescent clouds. Rocket and instruments functioned satisfactorily. (SR List)
Space Program Advisory Council, established by NASA to advise on space program goals and objectives and aid in reviewing plans for and work in progress on space programs and accomplishments, held first meeting. Council of prominent scientists would report to NASA Deputy Administrator on findings of four committees- Applications, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and Space Systems. (NASA Release 71-71)
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