Dec 10 1967
From The Space Library
Aerobee 150 sounding rocket was launched by NASA from WSMR, carrying ARC payload to 99.2-mi (159.5-km) altitude to verify performance of SPAFXS (Solar Pointing Aerobee Rocket Control System) and map the flight path magnetic field. Rocket and instrumentation performed satisfactorily. (NASA Rpt SRL)
AEC successfully detonated a nuclear explosion 4,240 f t underground in Farmington, N. Mex., creating a 160-ft-dia cavity. No radioactivity was released. The $4.7-million, 26-kiloton Project Gasbuggy explosion, first commercial nuclear explosion in Plowshare program for peaceful uses of atomic energy, was an attempt to unlock natural gas deposits trapped in rock formation too dense to be tapped by normal drilling methods. Analyses would be conducted for several months to analyze gas flow, determine reasons for any increases in potential production, and check for presence of radioactivity in gas. Test was sponsored jointly by AEC, El Paso Natural Gas Co., and Bureau of Mines. (AEC Release K-281; WS], 12/11/67; Al, A2; Smith, NYT, 12/11/67,1)
JPL scientists Dr. Dimiter I. Tchernev and Dr. George W. Lewicki had developed recording method which used pulsed laser beam to record magnetic spots (bits) on thin magnetic film, retaining several hundred times more data per square inch of film than was generally stored on present magnetic film or tape. Success of new process might permit storage of data for 500 photos on interplanetary spacecraft on a one-inch-square strip of film; retention of 10 million bits of scientific data per square inch of film by onboard computers; and substantial reduction in computer size. Project was being funded by NASA at rate of $175,000 a year. (JPL Release 463)
Boeing Co. President William M. Allen received Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce's 1967 Kitty Hawk Memorial Award for distinguished civilian achievement in aviation. Award for distinguished achievement in military aviation was presented to Air Force Academy Commandant Col. Robin Olds. (Av Wk, 12/25/67,68; Boeing PIO)
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