ITALY IN SPACE
Equatorial Satellite
(N.Z. Press Assn.—Copyright) NEW YORK, May 30. Italy is preparing to launch an earth satellite from an ocean platform off the coast of Africa, according to the “New York Times.” The satellite is expected to be the first vehicle placed in orbit around the equator. The ocean platform is necessary because there are no suitable rocket facilities on the equator. The launching pad is being outfitted at Ravena, Italy, and will be floated to the Indian Ocean late next year. The first test firing, using a vehicle incapable of achieving orbit, is scheduled for October or November, the newspaper said. An attempt at orbit, using a Scout rocket, is to be made next year. The satellite, expected to weigh about 200 pounds, is designed to make a constant observation of air drag along its orbital path, according to the newspaper The satellite’s orbit will range from 150 to 300 miles above the earth.
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Bibliographic details
Press, Volume CII, Issue 30146, 1 June 1963, Page 11
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158ITALY IN SPACE Press, Volume CII, Issue 30146, 1 June 1963, Page 11
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