Gemini Programme Speeded Up

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30782, 21 June 1965, Page 13

Gemini Programme Speeded Up

(N Z.P A.-Reuter—Copyright)

WASHINGTON, June 20.

The United States will attempt to make a manned Gemini capsule meet an orbiting Agena rocket this year, instead of next year.

The attempt has been brought forward because of the success of the f rst two Gemini manned flights. In disclosing the programme speed-up, Mr James Webb, administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, said the Gemini crew would attempt to attach their capsule to the rocket—an operation known as “docking.” Mr Webb’s announcement came in his report to President Johnson and the Cabinet on the recent Gemini IV flight of astronauts Edward White and James McDivitt. Mr Webb said, however, that the rendezvous and docking attempt would not be made on the next Gemini flight, a seven or eight day mission, scheduled for August. During this mission the

Gemini capsule will eject a pod and crew members will take turns walking in space in an effort to move close to the ejected object. Mr Webb gave no date for the rendezvous and docking flight other than that it had been set for later this year. When the attempt is made, an Atlas rocket will boost the upper stage of an Agena rocket into an earth orbit. Then the manned Gemini capsule will be launched in pursuit after the Agena’s exact orbit track has been calculated. This Gemini mission is also expected to involve more space walks by the crew. Mr Webb’s report said the flight of Gemini IV “indicates its excellent handling characteristics and provides strong assurance that more extended missions can now be undertaken.”