RAND's Role in the Evolution of Balloon and Satellite Observation Systems and Related U.S. Space Technology

Merton E. Davies, William R. Harris

ResearchPublished 1988

This history commemorates the 40th anniversary of The RAND Corporation, 1948-1988. RAND research studies aided in development of concepts, system requirements, and development programs for space satellites operational in the 1960s. RAND research in 1946-1954 emphasized reconnaissance missions for balloons and electro-optical (TV) reconnaissance satellites with data relay. Thereafter, RAND proposed use of recoverable, film-storage satellite payloads with simple guidance systems so that reconnaissance satellites could aid in arms control verification when intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) were deployed. In the 1950s, RAND space technology studies dealt with scientific exploration of the moon and solar system, satellites for weather forecasting and for mapping, missile launch detection, and technology applications for the civil space program of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Innovative studies of balloon reconnaissance platforms, ICBMs, uses of panoramic cameras for remote observation of earth, and use of infrared satellites for missile launch warning resulted from researcher-initiated studies.

Order a Print Copy

Format
Paperback
Page count
139 pages
List Price
$30.00
Buy link
Add to Cart

Document Details

  • Copyright: RAND Corporation
  • Availability: Available
  • Year: 1988
  • Print Format: Paperback
  • Paperback Pages: 139
  • Paperback Price: $30.00
  • Paperback ISBN/EAN: 978-0-8330-0919-7
  • Document Number: R-3692-RC

Citation

RAND Style Manual
Davies, Merton E. and William R. Harris, RAND's Role in the Evolution of Balloon and Satellite Observation Systems and Related U.S. Space Technology, RAND Corporation, R-3692-RC, 1988. As of October 8, 2024: https://www.rand.org/pubs/reports/R3692.html
Chicago Manual of Style
Davies, Merton E. and William R. Harris, RAND's Role in the Evolution of Balloon and Satellite Observation Systems and Related U.S. Space Technology. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation, 1988. https://www.rand.org/pubs/reports/R3692.html. Also available in print form.
BibTeX RIS

This publication is part of the RAND report series. The report series, a product of RAND from 1948 to 1993, represented the principal publication documenting and transmitting RAND's major research findings and final research.

This research in the public interest was supported by RAND using discretionary funds made possible by the generosity of RAND's donors, the fees earned on client-funded research, or independent research and development (IR&D) funds provided by the Department of Defense.

This document and trademark(s) contained herein are protected by law. This representation of RAND intellectual property is provided for noncommercial use only. Unauthorized posting of this publication online is prohibited; linking directly to this product page is encouraged. Permission is required from RAND to reproduce, or reuse in another form, any of its research documents for commercial purposes. For information on reprint and reuse permissions, please visit www.rand.org/pubs/permissions.

RAND is a nonprofit institution that helps improve policy and decisionmaking through research and analysis. RAND's publications do not necessarily reflect the opinions of its research clients and sponsors.