Aug 27 1958

From The Space Library

The first Argus experiment ( ARPA)) was conducted (based upon October 1957 proposal of N. C. Christofilos of the University of California, Livermore), in which a small A-bomb was detonated beyond the atmosphere over the South Atlantic. Launched from the rocketship Norton Sound, the initial flash was followed by an auroral luminescence extending upward and downward along the magnetic lines where the burst occurred.

Soviet Union reportedly sent two dogs to an altitude of 281 miles and safely returned them to earth, single-stage rocket boosting a total payload of 3,726 pounds.

President Eisenhower signed Public Law 85-766 which included $80 million for NASA, including $50 million for research and development, $25 million for construction and expenses, and $5 million for salaries and expenses.