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Van Allen Discovery Most ImportantThe first step toward the exploration of space occurred approximately 22 months ago as a part of the International Geophysical Year. In the short interval since October, 1957, the new tools of research, the satellite and the space rocket, have produced two unexpected results of fundamental scientific importance. First, instruments placed in the Explorer satellites by James A. Van Allen have revealed the existence of layers of energetic particles in the outer atmosphere. This discovery constitutes the most significant research achievement of the IGY satellite program. The layers may provide the explanation for the aurora and other geophysical phenomena, and they will also influence the design of vehicles for manned space flight, whose occupants must be shielded against their harmful biological effects. Second, the shape of the earth has been determined very accurately with the aid of data from the first Vanguard. As a result of this investigation, we have found that our planet tends toward the shape of a pear, with its stem at the North Pole. This discovery may produce major changes in our ideas on the interior structure of the earth.
Document ID
19630040880
Acquisition Source
Headquarters
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Jastrow, R.
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Date Acquired
August 1, 2013
Publication Date
July 20, 1959
Publication Information
Publication: Missiles and Rockets
Subject Category
Propulsion Systems
Accession Number
63N83766
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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