Releases / 7 / USG-UAP-D002

Interagency Correspondence Concerning Space Fragments, 1962-1964

File

USG-UAP-D002

Type

Document, 72 pages

Agency

U.S. Government

Date

1962-1964

Place

Washington, D.C.

Released

Release 7, October 23, 2026

Open the original on war.gov

The government's description

This file contains a series of memoranda and correspondence exchanged among senior Executive Branch officials between October 2, 1962, and May 26, 1964, concerning the development of a policy framework and communications strategy for the recovery, handling, analysis, and disposition of materials associated with U.S. and foreign activities in space.

Over the course of multiple drafts and revisions spanning nearly two years, the file documents efforts to establish jurisdictional boundaries based on the suspected origin and character of recovered material. In general, the proposed framework contemplated that material associated with a U.S. Department of Defense mission or equipment would be received, analyzed, and disposed of by the Department; that foreign space material would be turned over to the Department of Defense or the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), depending on the circumstances; and that the Department of State would coordinate with foreign governments to secure access to such material when recovered abroad. The correspondence also reflects efforts to assign responsibility for hazardous or radioactive materials to the Atomic Energy Commission. Various drafts alternated between assigning responsibility for handling materials whose origin could not be readily determined to the Department of Defense or to NASA.

The correspondence also reflects concern with public perception regarding recovery activity and includes draft public statements describing the proposed framework. This public messaging included language designating NASA as the holding authority for foreign materials, while private correspondence described a parallel plan to exploit such materials for technical analysis. Ultimately, although these negotiations did not produce a settled policy framework, the correspondence illustrates interagency deliberations between senior officials in the context of the Space Race and the broader Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union.

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Collection Title National Security File, Files of Charles E. Johnson
Folder Title
Box Number
"Space Vehicle Fragments - Responsibilities and Procedures"
018
Restriction Codes
(A) Closed by Executive Order 13292 governing acc... to national security Information.
(B) Closed by statute or by the agency which originated the document
(C) Closed In accordance with restrictions contained In the donor's deed of gift.
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Collection Title National Security File, Files of Charles E. Johnson
Folder Title
"Space Vehicle Fragments - Responsibilities and Procedures"
Box Number
018
Restriction Codes
(A) Closed by Executive Order 13292 governing accns to national ncurlty lnfonnatlon.
(B) Closed by statute or by the agency which originated the document
(C) Closed In accordance with restrictions contained In the donor's deed of gift.
1/13/2009
Initials

NASA HEADQUARTERS ROUTING SLIP
ACTION
NAME (if necessary)
CODE
APPROVAL
CONCURRENCE
1.
Charles Johnson
FILE
INFORMATION
2.
National Security
INVESTIGATE AND ADVISE
NOTE AND FORWARD
3.
Council
NOTE AND RETURN
PER REQUEST
4.
RECOMMENDATION
SEE ME
5.
SIGNATURE
REPLY FOR SIGNATURE OF:
6.
7.
REMARKS:
Underlined sections have been added since
the last draf't.
s
FROM:
CODE·
AI
NAME:
William F. Hausman
NASA Form 26 (Rev . July 19~9)
DATE:
5/26/64
U. S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE : 1959 o,-513021

I
J
·-
CQNlU~IAI.,
AF
:PAvt..
MANNED SPACECRAFT CENTER -- ATTN:
•
DR . GILRUTH AND . J-lJANcty
MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER -- ATTN:
DR . VON BRAUN
NASA JOHN F • .KENNEDY SPACE CENTER -- ATTN:
Bf\AT
l\l"D>\SL AnE~
D . DEB ~s .
. JOHN l: II: G
UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE , THE FOLLO~aNG IS THE RESPONSE TO
QUE.
, s ON POSSIBLE EARTH Ii•1PACTS OF FRAG..~ ~s F m.
Of' ::.:"·tI :~G SA- 6 BOOSTE •
NO QUERIES
VE BEEN RECEIVED
PREDICTION . . NO INFORMATION IS BEi rG VOLU-TEERED.
THIS RAS BEEN COORDINATED BY OUR INTERNATION.7\L PROGRAMS
OFFICE WITH THE STATE DEPARTME.t."rr . . ALL ADDITIONAL
RESPONSE OVER AND ABOVE THE FOLLOWING WILL. BE ONLY BY
THE ADMINISTRATOR , THE DEPUTY ADtUNISTRATOR OR THE
ASSOCIATE ~"vlINISTRATOR .
QUERIES REQUIRING SUCH
ADDITIONAL RESPONSES SHOULD BE REFERRED TO THEM.
•A .
Oij SIZE OF FRAGMENTS :
ACTUAL SIZE AND
NUMBER OF FRAGMEN'l'S CANNOT BE PREDICTED.
DEC
IFIED
. 13292, ~ C. 3.
• 8Y.~ W41ifrw RA,Da-...--=---,..
CONFIDENTIAL
1
ceMPIDBNWJ;AJ'..
3

NASA
I
•
AF
X
·•s.
ON LOCATIOM OF Ii ·1'£1'1
SINCE T!US VEHICLE
•.I A SI NGLE I MPACT POiclT .
VERY CAREFULLY STUDIED.
PROPER'n'
T
zs QUIT , • , •OTE .
~
l? SDIBI
Al.~ Discuss1m'.t oF suca 1J>1
IMPROBABLE INCIDENT WOULD BE HEAVILY COl"JECTURAL.
,a D.
Af'TEli A R.El?ORTED IMP AC'l':
UNDER ~0·
CIRCUMSTANCES DO.ES THIS AGENcY (GOV~RND- NT) CONJECTURE
ON 'Ii-IE ORIGIN OF AN OBJECT .
OBTAIN•
RA • ER . IT DESIR.ES TO
~W,YZE , AND ATTEMPT TO ESTJ\..BLISH THE· °'-1UGIN
OF SUCH AN OBJECT.
" E ,.
AFTER .I T I S RNOtiN THAT A FRAGM.~
DELIVERED ,:io US•
IS TO BE
i1HE 92JEC'r WILL BE SOBJEC'l'EI> TO
2
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3

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.STUDY AND PROMPT PUBLIC 1..N!: U&CEMEN
WILL BE MADE t'JHE.N
ANALYSIS BAS BEEN COMPLET~D."
JULIAN SCHEER
ASSIST~~ AI:MINISTRATOR
FOR PUBLlC AFFAIRS
cc:
AD/Dr. Dryden
AI/Mr . Frutkin
AA/Mi:. Williamson
M/Dr. Muell.e r
MAO/Mr. Abernethy
AFP/Mr. Lloyd
M-N/Mr . Alibrando
A/Mr . Webb
•
M/Dr. Seamans
3
Julian Scheer, Asst. Administra- (
tor for Public A f ~ '- _ l J r
12,l ~
_ri;ONFmtNTIA[
~
3
..
COlfE IDElff !tkll -
----~----~---~

3. The following dey, October 24, Mir. Fruticin called Dr. Golovin
arrenge a meeting for this purpose. A request for @ briefing
34
i BA Tf Jate \e f-809
(542

(b) It wes steted thet fraguents would probably impect over en
area between 2,170 and 2,500 miles long by 100 miles wide.

(c) Sone of the aluminum skin material is expected to survive
reentry. Interior parte should therefore be exposed to heating
during reentry. (Most fragments collected to date have been
steiniess steel pieces of Atles skin).

(4) If 30 fragments reenter the atmosphere, the probability of
@ casulty ie estimated at .0000179. If 39 pieces reenter, the
probability ie .0000232, or one casulty per 50,000 flights. A

fragment is considered capable of inflicting injury or deeth if
it hite with more than 58 foot pounds of kinetic energy.

(e) the nominal but uncertein lifetime projected for the satellite
is 148 days. The vehicle is to be launched on « heading of

105°, with e 345 nautical mile apogee, 141 neuticel mile perigee,
31.60 inclinetion and a 93.9 minute period.

(f) NASA hes investigated the possibility of destructing the
eatellite in orbit. ‘This does not appear feasible since any
destruct short of vaporization would simply create more fragments
of a lethal nature end increase the probabilities of a casualty.
In order to vaporize the satellite, a nuclear charge would be

(i) A tracking beacon with a 45-day life has been placed on
board the satellite to assist in monitoring it ec closely as
possibile.

7. Revised Information

Simee the November 27 briefing, the following revised date has been
provided: 95% probability 2,361 lbs. will return; 50% probability
3,000 lbs. will return.

&. Based on deta provided through Saithsonien Astrophysicel
Observatory, it hes been estimated that in one year, 310 meteorite
impects oceur in Africa (approximately 11,000,000 square kilometers);
i.e., 10 times as many objects as are involved in SA-5 reentry fall
in Africa alone in one year. To date there has been no substentiated
report of a personnel casualty resulting from these impects.

— Aigo

C Office of
International Programs

cc: Mr. C. Johuson, White House

U. S. GoYunment Prmting Otf c1; . 1963 o/9668
FROM
DATE OF DOCUMENT
1~
illi F.
CHECK WHETHER
□ ACTION
□ INFO,
He&./Code ll
COPY
COPY
-TO
------------------------1
NO:
DATE RECEIVED
AI-15
ACTION COPY TO
Johnso
INFORMATION
COPY TO ~
11
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - " " " T " " - - - - - - - 1 CLASSIFIED
CLASSIFICATION
SUSPENSE DATE POST OFFICE
REGISTRY NO.
REFERRED TO
cret
DESCRIPTION
I
NUMBER OF COPIES
REC'D. BY
DATE
REFERRED TO
REC'D BY
DATE
C&T
( MUST BE UNCLASSIFIED)
to
DESTROYED ( DATE AND NO.)
MATERIAL~
ries
ENCLOSURES
,
I
amens,
:te
Johnson,
rutk:l.n.,
BY
□ NO REPLY
NECESSARY
NASA MAIL CONTROL
FORM NASA 416A
(JUNE 1959)

( PLACE
NASA
CONTROL
FORMS
HERE)
This sheet and NASA Control Forms must be attached to Secret
material while in the custody of NASA Headquarters.
The attachment contains information affecting the National Defense of the
United States within the meaning of the espionage laws,· Title 18, U.S.C.,
Secs. 793 and 794, the transmission or revelation of which in any manner
to an unauthorized person is prohibited by law.

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RESPONSE 'ID QUERY
RE:
declassif i d
--3b
~ • no
1 11 t crv a 1 .., ,
...•A pril 8, 1964,
Queries on Fragment Return from NASA Spacecraft or Space Vehicles
A much abbreviated guideline for RrQ, has been provided by Mr. Scheer
to various NASA officials who might be queried on this subject. The
following more extensive responses are provided as background information
to be used by the Administrator, Deputy Administrator, or Associate
Administrator of NASA, in their judgment, in event of queries on the •
return of space vehicle fragments to the earth. It is suggested that
the minimum inf_o rmation be used to satisfy a given query.
(A)
FOR USE PRIOR TO AND AFTER A PARTICUIAR IAUNCH BUT BEFORE ANY KNOWN
IMPACT OF RETURNING FRAGMENTS:
l.
Do fragments from
(satellite X) pose a threat to life or
property?
The probability that fragments from (satellite X) may cause
damage or injury is remote. The probability of injury from
natural meteorites is far greater.
2.
a.
What is the probability of impact?
There are many factors (e.g., time in orbit, atmospheric
conditions, how the vehicle breaks up, dispersal pattern, etc.)
involved and the calculations are extremely complex. We have
assured ourselves, however, that the hazard is far less than
many hazards encountered in everyday living.
3. Has NASA taken steps to lessen the fragment problem?
Yes. NASA is actively engaged in minimizing it. For example,
on the SA-5 satellite, NASA used 13,000 lbs. of harmless sand
as ballast and roughed up the nosecone so that it would burn
on reentry. On the GT-1 spacecraft, NASA bored large holes in
the heat shield to assist burning during reentry. In addition
to specific steps such as these, studies are underway to assist
NASA in further coping with the overall reentry problem.
ANY INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT USED
IN RESPONSE 'ID QUERIES IS AUTOMATICALLY
DE
E.O.
8-y~
GROUP ;ECI.ASSIFIED, · Dovmgra,~ed a t 12 year '----intorvals; not automatically
declassified
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5.
I f any fragments come down, where are they most likely to impactt
The small number of' fragments surviving f'rom any satellite will
be dispersed over an area of thousands of' square miles, most
of' which are likely to be oceans, seas, or other water surface.
6. Can the fragment problem be further decreased by exploding the
orbiting element?
Explosion or destruct of' the orbiting element could produce
more fragments and,· hence, increase the possibility of' fragment
impact.
7.
If one were to be hit by a fragment, would it be lethal?
In the remote possibility that one were to be struck by a
. :fragment, it might, depending upon area of' body struck, be
l
~iiel~~ t,J;f:J~~~lmo~t r.!l~ai!f.~~~:&rlfflt-i)~~
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rage . ,number of
me . eor tes:'.ro ver· 2. 2 lbs. which impact.. on ,,the· ·e arth-eve-ry year
5628.-!· •T-his· is ·znany; many;- time~ · grea:-e-er than
of' ~ra~en~sJ_ ~9.~ ~·- ~:SPectea," i:.om (satellite
~ - -~,.....,,,r
:
• ~~ ~e -:-'18.l?e no suostantiated rep·o rts of' :Lnjuey'
f
~ · e impacts.
e. Meteorites are natural phenomena. Do you consider NASA
justified in increasing the possibilities of a lethal impact,
no matter how improbable?
Many human activities carry with them a demonstrable probability •
of casualty--flying, automobile driving, golfing ; during an
electrical. storm. But we do not stop driving, f ~ or golf­
ing.
GROUP 3
Downgr ade d a t 12 year
intorv~l~ ; n? t aut omat icallY
dec l a s sif io'd

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9. Will this sort of thing be a continuing hazard?
In some degree, yes. In time, it should become possib1~ to
develop some solutions such as ensured return over water, but
these will take a great deal of research and development as
veil as signif'icant payload margin. It is a matter of constant
attention.
lO. How do reentry ;problems with GT-1 compare 'With those of other
rockets?
Very roughly, about the same as 'With Atl.as reentries, f'ran
which there have been no casualties.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
NATIONAL

AERONAUTICS

and

SPACE

COUNCIL

WASHINGTON

November 15, 1963

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

MEMORANDUM TO:
Dr. Arnold Fritsch
Mr. Albert D. Wheelan
Dr. Albert C. Hall
Mr. Arnold Frutkin
Mr. Charles Johnson
Dr. Nicholas Golovin
Mr. Robert Packard

Subject:

(AEC)

(CIA)
(DOD)
(NASA) /
(NSC)
(OST)
(State)

v

Fragments

The meeting on November 6 was informative. At the close of
that session, I promised to weigh various suggestions and come
up with a draft paper for joint consideration. Such a paper is
attached. I would doubt that everyone's interests are completely
satisfied with this language, but it is hoped that it comprises a
reasonable basis for agreement. In any event, I would appreciate
your evaluating it and preparing yourselves to indicate what por­
tions are satisfactory and what portions need improvement.
A meeting to discuss this language and related issues is scheduled
for November 21, 10 o'clock, in Room 213 Executive Office Build­
ing. Please adt-i se my offi ce i n aavance wlro"'will attend for your
respective agencies.

-

E. C. Welsh

Classified attachment (2 cys)

D~>
~uthontY N \.'J -0 2913. O) t) .o o\ / (
!i,

~ NARA, Date l:.) I ; l.f

Upon removal of attach•
ments this document
becomes unclassified.

Mr. Huntington Sheldon
Sheldon
DECLASSJ..1-'Hi~-'
'uathom-,N).,:J . o~oft o1g.oo\{3
~l·~
NARA. Date ,;l\-1~

C:ONFIL1ENTIA L
Draft of Nov~ 6, ~96Z
Revised l)y: i;,c)D 3/ 1/63
[ ] - material deleted
U?derlining - m-.terial ~dded
GUIDELINES
FOR INTERACiENCY HANDLING OF SPACE VEHICLE Fa.AGM!.;NTS
l. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) J•
designated as the agency responsible for receiving. : [ analyzing] ~4
identifying . [ any] fragments, or suspecied fragments of space veht~l••
of all types, including the contents thereof, which fall upon the ~errJ~ory
of the United States or whicb otherwise come into iis posseaeion, ~~opt
that the Department of Defense (DOD) ia. sol•ly responsible for receivinlJ
and identifying fragments from vehicles la~ched by the DOD.
[ 2. NASA will turn over to the Deparpnent of Defense (DOD) ae
expeditiously as possible fragments wblcb •re r,adily identifiable as coming
from space vehicles launched by the DOD.]
2. In the event NASA should cqme lntQ possession of space fragments
under the sole and exclusive res onsibili of'the DOD, NASA will deliver
such fragments as expeditiously
as possib
e. to tbe DOD.
I
.
3. To insure prompt analye1is for inteµigonce purposes, NASA and other
U. S. Government agencies wiU [ give]. deliver io the DOD [ and· other
responsible agencies acce·s s] as expeditoualy as possible and on a priority
basis fragments (including whole vebiclea) ~hie~ are readily ide~tif~ble ~
suspect as coming from [ space] vehicles ~unched from foreig~ couptriea.
Such foreign fragme~t• which come initially into possession of the DOD • •••.,
will be retained by DOD for analysis. Such analysis of forei n fra· rnents
will be completed expeditiously, and thereafter ,uch fragments· will •.,-emain]
be placed in the custody of NASA, pendins final -.rrangementa for their return
to the launching country oi- for other approprj.ate disposition.
4. All other fragments wi)J. be retained by ;NASA pending agree~ent as
to disposition.
•
5. NASA may continue to u,e the Smithson.Jan Institution for. coµ~c~o~
and analysis of fragments by contrac~ arr~g,men~s, and may ~•o make
appropriate arrange~ents for assis~c• with private agencies.
•

S ONFtPENYp\!?

.
,l

_!:ONFIDENTIP L ,

6. The DOD will notify NASA when deorbits are expected and when
collection teams have been alerted to obtain the deorbiting fragments.
Also, DOD will inform NASA of the results of such collection efforts
whether successful or not.
7. The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) will participate in the
analysis of fragments of space vehicles which have utilized or transported,
or are suspected of having utilized or transported, radioactive materials
or special nuclear materials, and will exercise responsibility for special
nuclear materials, in accordance with its statutory responsibility. In
addition, the AEC will continue to make available to NASA and the DOD
its special scientific capabilities.
8. The Department of State will provide policy guidance with respect
to the final disposition of fragments from vehicles launched by foreign
countries, or made available to the United States by foreign countries.
The Department of State will provide assistance in the acquisition of
fragments that fall on foreign territory.

9. NASA will serve as the focal point for the coordination and release
of public information on fragments except for release of public information
on fragments resulting from space vehicles launched by the DOD, which will
be the responsibility of DCD.

CONFIDE:NTIA:'L

13

DRAFT
November 6, 1962

PUBLIC STATEMENT
ON HANDLING OF SPACE VEHICLE FRAG.r.lIENTS

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is
designated as the Governm.ent agency responsible for receiving
[ analyzing] , and identifying [ any] fragments or suspected fr2.gments
of space vehicles of all types, including the contents thereof, which
fall upon the territory of the United States or which otherwise come
into its possession.
Fragments identified as coming from vehicles launched by
foreign countries will be retained by NASA pending final arrangen1ents
for their return to the launching country or for other appropriate
disposition.

In performing these functions, NASA will coordinate fully
with other Government agencies.

Delete bracketed words to conform to DOD revisions of paper
dated IVlarch 1, 1963.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
NATIONAL

AERONAUTICS

and

SPACE

COUNCIL

WASHINGTON

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

October 24, 1963

MEMORANDUM TO:
Honorable Dean Rusk
Secretary of State

Honorable John A. McCone
Director, CIA

Honorable Roswell L. Gilpatric
Deputy Secretary of Defense

Honorable Jerome B. Wiesner
Director, OST

Honorable James E. Webb
Administrator, NASA

Subject:

/ Honorable McGeorge Bundy
Special Assistant to the President

Responsibility and Procedure re Space Vehicle Fragments

Subject matter has in the past been discussed with representatives
of interested agencies. Draft language was circulated and agreement
was initially obtained. Subsequently, some variations in preferred
languagetleveloped.
In response to inquiry from Chairman Miller of the House Science
and Astronautics Committee regarding legislation introduced on this
subject, the Administrator of NASA responded that he did not believe
such legislation was needed at this time, as the question of responsi­
bility for receiving, analyzing, and identifying fragments and suspected
fragments was being considered within the Executive Branch . This
consideration was presumably a reference to the meetings and drafts
developed under our auspices.
There has been more than sufficient time elapsed since this matter was
first examined for the interested agencies to agree upon a responsible
position. Consequently, I am calling a meeting to examine this subject
on November 6 at 10 o'clock in Room 213 of the Executive Office Build­
ing. It would be appreciated if you would identify representation for
your agency at such a session. When you have done so, it would be
appreciated if my office were notified as to the person or persons who
expect to attend.

E. C. Welsh

IL

I

lo
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
NATIONAL

AERONAUTICS

and

SPACE

COUNCIL

WASHINGTON

EXECUTIVE SECRE TARY

October 24 , 196 3

MEMORANDUM TO:

Honorabl Dean Rusk
Seer ta.ry of State

Honorabl John A, McCon
Dir c tor, CIA

Honorabl Ro well L . Gilpatric
Deputy Secretary •O f D fens

Honorabl J rome B. Wi sn r
Dir e c:tor, OST

Honorabl James E. rfebb
Administrator, NASA

Honorable McGeor
Bundy
Sp eial Ae i tant to the President

Subj ct:

Re pon ibility and Proc ·dur

re Space Vehicle Fragments

Subject matter ha.s in the past b en di cussed with r · pre ntatives
of int rested agencie s . Draft language was circulated and agr ement
was initially obtaine d . Subsequently, s ome variations in preferred
langua. e developed .
In respon
to inqu· ry from Chairman Miller of the Hou
Science
and Astronauti cs C mmitt e regardi ng legislation introduc d on thi
subject, the Admini strator of NASA respond d th t h did not b 1i v
such legislation was needed at thi s tim , as th ques tion o:£ responsi•
bilit y for r e ceiving, analyzing. and id ntilyi ng fragments and uspected
fragments was b ing consider d withi n the Executiv Branch. Thi
c on 1deration was pr sumably a Jteference to the· me ting and drafts
dev •loped und r our auspic s .
Ther h
been mor than sufficient tim elap ed sine thi matter as
fir t examin d for the int r st d agenei s to agree upon a :r sponsibl
posi tion. Con qu ntly, I m callin a me ting to x mine this ubject
on Nov mber 6 at 10 o'clock in Room 2 13 of th Ex cutiv Offic Build­
ing. It would b a.ppr ci t d if you would identify repr sentation for
your agency at such a ses ion. When you have on , so, it would be
appreciated i f my offic w re notifie d as t o the p rson or per ons who
expect to att end.
,

!1

~ K ::
E. C. W lsh

IN REPl Y REFER TO:

.
.•.

.:r . F,c,. m ·,;e..,

Executive Secret
Ne~1~na1 Aeronautics
Spec~ Co~c1l
.
Ws.; ·i:1og ,~n 25, D .. ·:.c. · /./'
.· ·:.:1

-;.-~: '.-/:::~.
I

.·:_•

I

1

•

F:-1::-vtn~ ·a disc-.a~i c t ~ laat.
, .
, ,.
evej
-::-9..!': ~ ~ h.e.nd.ling ot !ragme!lta .a a4 g:rea.t'ly aimplitie1 Ot;..r ccz:!k-n •.:. s, 6.l :.~ t.igh 1t '1'8.S aot ;>oHible'' to ·• lllld.na~ thelr. ·a:1. :'-e 7-·-.
~;: _.:. :-v: ~ : ~:a:11e n ti a=e ma-ie:
• • ::·- -~•'· •
.
. •vo
::.!~''
l . ~ ~~ ~ ~tj.e ction to. ~ --- e n.g
.~ ~aggralih one, line two;_· vi_th the . clear -~e:astc..1~:-.i.g
• :ia: !:-agment 1!en~.. 1fic at.ion •Y •1n· r-a : t ~q-..i:e

:a~; ratory s.nelyBia.

2.

~~-:;j{\);/i j~?{~\t){ j>

In pe:-&gra¥h three, the. word.a-- ~ and otMr: tlS gcvernment ! .. ··
agenc1~e" an1 "Su.ch foreign 'rrap.enta .vh!ch come
....

ot

1n!t1a:ly into pcsaesaion·
DOD· vill be -retained oy
~D for anal.ysia." ahould ·be _4eleted aiac~ they e.re
i!lcon-1&tent -w1 t,h tlat atateaeat__in ~ i ) h c n-e that.
'' (NASA) 115 designated u tbe qenc7 reaponai1.1le !~~
!"'eceiving an-: 1den~1tying trap.ent•f' -iii th the ~-.:~; •..- :~

c'! ! ~ n:.a !':ca OOD vehiclea :. ,.

3.

••. .. •. ··---;·· .,
.,,,

Paragraph t1ve bu been del•~- ai11ce it ~rt.aina
e7Cl'.181ve.ly to internal NASA •tter1.
•

MEM011.AN.DUM n>&
a..rule,....A.M.c..
~
Chtf
., c •..a 1,s,nn1, •
............
Thu oface wu eeke1l ••~ ttm. ... le c••••• .._ _
of a pl&Wc l&nr r•e,.... aD1l aa .._al (eJaedtlecl) dove wt to 8s
re•poa•iWlid•• Md• wtJAM po ■•••- ..__... . . ••Jed
rnaner. T• Mau..._ my me,..,,, tan .. U. Ow ral Carlew,
clallld
JI. lf6J. ,...w.l . . . Ila• I 11 . . . Ml,_.
peJN& .. tllUtlme.
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a..-...., ..
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it iu.. . - Na coer-fl nt'9cl wl21 te ._ tete1H1•• 11 >meete,.
ltl8•. . . . . . . . . . . . . , . . . -ruA--. . , ,, ,, . . . . llllnl
,.,...7 _.. II•• 11 at tr rra •• . . . M le• llf Ga nil Ca 11,~
11 Ca _fll .. 11 l • I . atll. .....
Zit a lllealc&,- JI
ma••· II• Cll•ll111IM1Pllme . . . . . . d••... _.Ilea WM
•••Y _,...,...,. If . . 11.W •a h a lao• ••h • zlr • tllla metter•
.. c:. ....
EaclN-Ue (u Tu A) Dalene J>rd fll
Marcia l/6J "Ga-►• f o r ~
Rn dJhla el S,ace Yehle.. r.._ 1 5 "(Qe ■ 18CDcl C
Ch tfsal)
DECLASSJ.FIW--'
,uthontY N tj
-
R~.~
--
.o?»oR-~,~. oo\ /b
NARA. Datf''7i-J \-\Y

-GGNFlDENTIAL
GUIDELINES FOR INTE RAGENCY HANDLING
OF SPACE VEHICLE FRAGMENTS

lo
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration
(NASA) is designated as the agency responsible for receiving and
identifying fragments, or suspected fragments of space vehicles of
all types, including the contents thereof, '-irhich fall upon the terri­
tory of the United States or which otherwise cc:ne into its possession,
except that the Department of Defense (DoD) is solely responsible for
receiving and identifying fragments from vehicles launched by the
DoD•

2.
In the event NASA should come into possession of space
fragments under the sole and exclusive responsibility of the DoD,
NASA will deliver such fragments as expeditiously as possible to the
DoD.

3.
To insure prompt analysis for intelligence purposes, NASA
and other u.s. Government agencies will deliver to the DoD as expe­
ditiously as possible and on a priority basis fragments (including whole
vehicles) which are readily identifiable or suspect as coming from
vehicles launched from foreign countries. Such foreign fragments
which come initially into possession of the DoD will be retained by DoD
for analysis. Such analysis of foreign fragments will be completed
expeditiously, and thereafter such fragments will be placed in the cus­
tody of NASA, pending final arrangements for their return to the launch­
ing country or for other appropriate disposition.
4.
All other fragments will be retained by NASA pending agreement as to disposition.

s.

NASA may continue to use the Smithsonian Institution for
collection and analysis of fragments by contractual arrangements, and
may also make appropriate arrangements for assistance with private
agencies.
6.
The DoD will notify NASA when deorbits are expected and
when collection teams have been alerted to obtain the deorbiting frag­
ments. Also, DoD will inform NASA of the results of such collection
efforts whether successful or not.

-OONFIDENTL\L

r CONFIDEN rlAL

.. z 7.
The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) will participate
in the analysis of fragments of space vehicles which have utilized
or transported, or are suspected of having utilized or transported,
radioactive materials or special nuclear materials, and will exer ...
cise responsibility for special nuclear materials, in accordance with
its statutory responsibility. In addition, the AEC will continue to
make available to NASA and the DoD its special scientific capabilities.

s.

The Department of State will provide policy guidance with
respect to the final disposition of fragments from vehicles launched
by foreign countries, or made available to the United States by foreign
countries. The Department of State will provide assistance in the
acquisition of fragments that fall on foreign territory.

9.

NASA will serve as the focal point for the coordination and
release of public information on fragments except for release of pub..
lie information on fragments resulting from space vehicles launched
by the DoD, which will be the responsibility of DoD.

NATIONAL
AERONAUTICS
and
SPACE
COUNCIL
March 4 , 1963
To:
Charles Johnson
This is the paper to which I re £erred on the phoneo
..........
E. C. Welsh
---2t)

2act

eeNFl&ENTJm.

GUIDELINES FOR INTERAGENCY HANDLING
OF SPACE VElL.CLE FRAGMENTS

1.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration
(~NASA) is design&ted aa the agency responaible for receiving and
-i~entifying £raiment,, or 1uapected fragment• of space vehicles.
of all types, including the contents thereof. which fall upon the
territory of the United States or which otherwise come into its
p9ssession, except that the Department of Defense (DoD) is solely
responsible for receiving and identifying fragments from vehicles
launched by the DoD.

Z.

In the event NASA ahould come into possession of
spac.e fragment• under the sole and exclusive respensibility of the
DoD, NASA will deliver such fragments as expeditiously aa possible
to the DoD.
3.
To in1ure prompt analysis for intelligence purposes,
NASA and other u. S. Government a1encie• will deliver to the DoD
as expeditioualy as possible and on a priority basis fragments
(including whole vehicles) which are readily identifiable or suspect
as coming from vehicles launched from foreip countries. Such
foreign frapnent1 which come initially into poa1e1aion of the DoD
will be retained by DoD for analyais. Such analysis of foreign
fragments will be completed expeditioully. and thereafter such
~ragmcnts will be placed in the cuatody of NASA. pending final
arrangementa for their return to the launchins country or for
other appropriate di1polition.

•

4. •
All oth~r fragmmita will be retained by NASA pending
a1reement aa to clispoaition.
5.
NASA may contlnm to uae the Smlthaom.&D Inatitm!on
for collection and analyli• of frapnenta by contractual arrangements,
and may al10 make appropriate arrangement• for a1sbtance with
private agenci•••
0

GQPIRBENfL~t
..

... ...... . .

' 1

.,

6.
The DoD will n•::,tify NASA when d6orbits are
exp~cted and when collectior_ :cams have been alerted to obtain
the deorbiting fragi:nents. Also, DoD will inform NASA of the
results of such collection efiorta whether successful or not.
7.
The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) will
participate in the analysis of fragments of space vehicles which
have utilized or tranaported, or a.re suspected of having utilized
or tran;,,ported, radioactive materials or special nuclear material•,
ar..d will exercise responsibility for special nuclear materials, in
accordance with its statutory respons i bility. In additior., the AEC
will continue to make available to NASA and the DoD its special
scientific capabilitiea.

8.

The Department of State will provide policy guidance

with respect to the·final. disposition of fragments from vehicles
la'1llched by foreign count·r ies, or made available to the United States

by foreign countries. The Department of State will provide asai~ta.nce
in the acquisition of fragments that fall on foreign territory.

9.

NASA will serve as the focal point for the coordination
and release of public information on fragment• except for release
of public information on.fragment• resulting from apace vehicle•
launched by the DoD, which will be 'the reaponaibility of DoD•

..

. -.

2

00,iFIBEriTiA~~

December 1

MEMORANDUM FOR: Mr. Thomas Parrott
Tom-You should know about the attached documents and the
small hassel between DOD and CIA concerning the procedural
guidelines paper. As I under tand it, the departmental repre­
sentatives that worked with Ed Welsh had secured departmental
clearances on the procedure but later on the Agency clearance
somehow got unstuck.
At this point there is no White House intervention that is
either desirable or needed but, on the other hand, there is no
guarantee that this could not become a White House issue on
strictly jurisdictional grounds. As far as I am concerned it is a
>-"tempest in a tea cup~ that would have been avoided ~entirely
if the Space Council would have brought the Agency into the ad hoc
committee from the beginning.
Please return the papers when you have seen them.

Attachment:
1.
2.

Dec. 7, 1962 Memo to NAS~ fr CIA
Draft 11/6/62 Guidelines for Inter­
agency Handling of Space Vehicle
FPagments.

.-00N .E IDEN 1'IAL

. DJICLASSJnJ,,
\uthomy Nk:S •P•«> B- o,<(.oo\f(

NARA. Date .;H-Jll

CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY
WASHINGTON 25 , D. C .
OFFICE OF DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE
7
DEC1962
J
{SigneO:
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al
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l=I.T'
;/
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~
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DECL\SSIFIJp'f>
,uthotttf
-
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,,
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
NATIONAL
AERONAUTICS
and
SPACE
COUNCIL
WASHINGTON
EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
November 6, 1962
Mr. Johnson:
Herewith are the draft papers as revised and agreed to at
today's meeting 0 Copies have been sent to interested agency
heads for formal concurrence•
....
....
E. C. Welsh
2 Enclosures • Fragments
L, (Unclassified)
2o ( Confidential ... 2 pages)

DRAFT
il /6/62
P UBLIC STATEivi ENT
ON HANDLING OF SPACE VEHICLE F .:~AGui ENTS

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is designated
as the Government agency responsible for receiving, analyzing, and
identifying any fragments or suspected fragments of space vehicles
of all types, including the contents thereof, which fall upon the terri­
tory of the United States or which otherwise come into its possession.
Fragments identified as coming from vehicles launched by foreign
countries will be retained by NASA pending final arrangements for
their return to the launching country or for other appropriate dis­
position.
In performing these functions, NASA will coor dinate iully wi~\;>. oth.~r
Government agencies.

I
GOP.lFID E HTI.AL

DRAFT

11/6/62
GUIDELINES
FOR INTERAGENCY HANDLING OF SPACE VEHICLE FRAGMENTS

I. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is
designated as the agency responsible for receiving, analyzing, and identify­
ing any fragments, or suspected fragments of space vehicles of all types,
including the contents thereof, which fall upon the territory of the United
States or which otherwise come into its possession.

z. NASA will turn over to the Department of Defense (DOD) as expedi...
tiously as possible fragments which are readily identifiable as coming from
space vehicles launched by the DOD.
3. To insure prompt analysis for intelligence purposes, NASA will
give the DOD and other responsible agencies access, as expeditiously as
possible, to fragments which are readily identifiable as coming from space
vehicles launched from foreign countries. Such analysis will be completed
expeditiously and thereafter such fragments will remain in the custody of
NASA, pending final arrangements for their return to the launching country
or for other appropriate disposition.
4o, All other fragments will be retained by NASA pending agreement
as to disposition.

s. NASA may continue to use the Smithsonian Institution for collection
and analysis of fragments by contractual arrangements, and may also make
appropriate arrangements for assistance with private agencies.
6. The DOD will notify NASA when deorbits are expected and when
collection teams have been alerted to obtain the deorbiting fragments. Also,
DOD will inform NASA of the results of such collection efforts whether suc­
cessful or not.
7. The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) will participate in the analysis
of fragments of space vehicles which have utilized or transported, or are
suspected of having utilized or transported, radioactive materials or special
nuclear materials, and will exercise responsibility for special nuclear
materials, in accordance with its statutory responsibility. In addition, the
AEC will continue to make available to NASA and the DOD its special scientific
capabilities.
CONFIDEP.lTI..AL

DEC
By~

1

D
•__,__ _

CONFIDENTIAL
- 2 8. The State Department will provide policy guidance with respect
to the disposition of fragments from vehicles launched by foreign countries,
or made available to the United States by foreign countries.
9. NASA will serve as the focal point for the coordination and release
of public information on fragments.
r.o~IFIDEN'PIAL
~
------------

CLASSIFIED DOCUMENT RECEIPT
TO (Name an
a
re.rs>
DATE OF TRANSFER
11/6/62
FROM <Name aftd address>
CLASSIFICATION
E. C. Welah
National Aeronautics and Spac Council
W abi'l'Udon D
TITLPOR 1oe:ift1F~AMN
GSA REGISTER NO.
<TOP Sl~CRET o,,/y)
Mr. Charle E. John•
National Security Council
R.oom #368 EOB Wubtn
General Services Administration
NCLASS[PJED Dercriptio,z s11ch (IJ File No., Sr1bject, etc.)
Fr gment
~
--CONF!DEN l'.....U.NUMBER OF ENCLOSURES
NUM
Two
DENTIFIED MATTER WAS PERSONALLY RECEIVED BY ME:
<Date>
THIS COPY TO BE RETAINED BY ADDRESSEE
<Thne>
GSA FORM 1237
MARCH 1060

r.
To
-
l
·o
th
1
l.0
r
u
r
en y u
v
n
. Jo n on
C
TI
DE.CL\SSI.FIS~>
~amoatf NlcJ· o'3£)R,.o\ j .. oo\ /$.
ftl· -K---
NAIA. Date 1~e1 \-J"

Z6

DRAFT

il/ 6/62
PUBLIC STATEivi ENT
ON HANDLING OF SPACE VEHICLE F h.AGMENTS

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is designated
as the Government agency responsible for receiving, analyzing, and
identifying any fragments or suspected fragments of space vehicles
of all types, including the contents thereof, which fall upon the terri­
tory of the United States or which otherwise come into its possession.
Fragments identified as coming from vehicles launched by foreign
countries will be retained by NASA pending final arrangements for
their return to the launching country or for other appropriate dis­
position.
In performing these functions, NASA will coordinate fully ,,.r.i~ll oth~r
Government agencies.

f

I

-CON FIDi: N TI ..A... .I:.,
DRAFT

11/6/62
GUIDELINES
FOR INTERAGENCY HANDLING OF SPACE VEHICLE FRAGMENTS

1. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is
designated as the agency responsible for receiving, analyzing, and identify­
ing any fragments, or suspected fragments of space vehicles of all type s 1
including the contents thereof, which fall upon the territory of the United
States or which otherwise come into its possession.
2o NASA will turn over to the Department of Defense (DOD) as expedi­
tiously as possible fragments which are readily identifiable as coming from
space vehicles launched by the DOD.

3. To insure prompt analysis for intelligence purposes, NASA will
give the DOD and other responsible agencies access, as expeditiously as
possible, to fragments which are readily identifiable as coming from space
vehicles launched from foreign countries. Such analysis will be completed
expeditiously and thereafter such fragments will remain in the custody of
NASA, pending final arrangements for their return to the launching country
or for other appropriate disposition.
4o All other fragments will be retained by NASA pending agreement
as to disposition.

s. NASA may continue to use the Smithsonian Institution for collection
and analysis of fragments by contractual arrangements, and may also make
appropriate arrangements for assistance with private agencies.
6. The DOD will notify NASA when deorbits are expected and when
collection teams have been alerted to obtain the deorbiting fragments.. Also,
DOD will inform NASA of the results of such collection efforts whether suc­
cessful or not.
7. The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) will participate in the analysis
of fragments of space vehicles which have utilized or transported, or are
suspected of having utilized or transported, radioactive materials or special
nuclear materials, and will exercise responsibility for•special nuclear
materials, in accordance with its statutory responsibility. In addition, the
AEC will continue to make available to NASA and the DOD its special scientific
capabilities.
.-CO~lFIDENTIAL

Z7

£0-:NFIDEM'i'IAL
- 2 8. The State Department will provide policy guidance with respect
to the disposition of fragments from vehicles launched by foreign countries,
or made available to the United States by foreign countries.

9.

NASA will serve as the focal point for the coordination and release
of public information on fragments.

•0 6 N F I D S P¢ ':F I A L ---

NATIONAL AEB.ONAUTICS AND SPACE COUNCU..
Iateraaeac, M••tbla oa Space Velllct. Fraan1ente
Tuad&y. November 6, 1962 • 10:30 a. m.
:Reem213E.0.8
CHAIR.MAN:
A.EC:
Dr. Anael4 Frltaclt.
.JUSTICE:
Mr. It.Nert S&loedaia
NASA:
NSC:
OST:
Mr. ~•ae Sltohlikoff
MASC:
D.r. Curlee S. Saelcloa ll
r.
claard Hlracb
Mr. R..
• Hal•
STATE:
M•. Robert Packard
Mr. IAenard. M.eeker

-
DRAFT
'""CONPID:SHTIAL
November 1, 1962
GUIDELINES
FOR IN'TERAGENCY HANDLING OF SPACE VEHICLE FRAGMENTS
1.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is designated
as the agency responsible for receiving, analyzing, and identifying any
fragments, or suspected fragments of space vehicles of all types, including
the contents thereof, which fall upon the territory of the United States or
which otherwise come into its possession.
z.
NASA will turn over to the Department of Defense (DOD) as expeditiously
as possible fragments which are readily identifiable as coming from space
vehicles launched by the DOD• .
3.
To insure prompt analysis for intelligence purposes, NASA will give the
N ,11.v,.. ~ L i . ~ . ....
DOD access, al expeditiusly as possible, to fragments which are readily
I\
identifiable as coming from space vehicles launched from foreign countries.
(
lit,
tr..~
~Ji..,.,.,.,,, wiil~1, <L [ Upon
completion~ such analysis, ~Jll!i,~1rj wh fragments(iv§I to
~
NAS~~ul!lleliy they ~ remain pending final arrangements for
}
*
\4~
I
their return to the launching country or for other appropriate disposition.
All other fragments will be retained by NASA pending agreement as to
disposition.
GONFWFNTI.AL
\M.-,.

'
.
-2-
--=--------
CO~lFmEN 1'LAD-
s. NASA may continue to use the Smithsonian Institution for collection
and analysis of fragments by contractual arrangements, and may also
make appropriate arrange~ents for assistance with private agencies.
6.
The DOD will notify NASA when deorbits are expected and when collection
teams have been alerted to obtain the deorbiting fragments.
Also, DOD will
inform NASA of the results of such collection efforts whether successful
or not.
7•
The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) will participate in the an~ysis
of fragments of space vehicles which have utilized or transported, or are
suspected of having utilized or transported, radioactive materials or
special nuclear materials, and will exercise responsibility for special
nuclear materials, in accordance with its statutory responsibility.
In
addition, the AEC will continue to make available to NASA and the DOD its
special scientific capabilities.
a. l}pns
lllf~
b • A waai; aiep the State Department will provide
~ .&.
e· s
.
policy guidance a::M1•1l ~th respect to
~1i"r
-1 dis osition of fragments from
1
vehicles lawiched bv...foreign countries~ ,,.._ w--../4
~
It;
/I
hfJ
9. NASA will serve as the focal point for the release of public information
o n ~ fragments.
CONi'WENTIAL"'

- CONFIDENTJA t ~
I
•
NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE COUNCIL
ov mber
,
9 2
TO:
>/
(
(
(
•
•
(
(
(
)
J
T)
tic )
ubject:
i:
ent .
ov
b r 6, ·n
•
•
Executive Secretary

DRAFT
November 1, l 96Z

PUBLIC STATEMENT
ON HANDLING OF SPACE VEHICLE FRAGMENTS

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is designated
as the Government agency responsible for receiving, analyzing, and
identifying any fragments or suspected fragments of space vehicles of
all types, including the contents thereof, which fall upon the territory
of the United States or which otherwise come into its possession.
Fragments identified as coming from vehicles launched by foreign
countries will be retained by NASA pending final arrangements for their
return to the launching country or for other appropriate disposition.
In performing these functions, NASA will coordinate fully with
other Government agencies.

-
33
COMEl.Di:NTIAL
DRAFT
November 1, 1962
GUIDELINES
FOR INTERAGENCY HANDLING OF SP ACE VEHICLE FRAGMENTS
1.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is designated
as the agency responsible for receiving, analyzing, and identifying any
fragments, or suspected fragments of space vehicles of all types, including
the contents thereof, which fall upon the territory of the United States or
which otherwise come into its possession.
z. NASA will turn over to the Department of Defense (DOD) as expeditiously
as possible fragments which are readily identifiable as coming from space
vehicles launched by the DOD.
3.
To insure prompt analysis for intelligence purposes, NASA will give the
DOD access, as expeditiously as possible, to fragments which are readily
identifiable as coming from space vehicles launched from foreign countries.
Upon completion of such analysis, the DOD will turn such fragments over to
NASA. in whose custody they will remain pending final arrangements for
their return to the launching country or for other appropriate disposition.
4.
All other fragments will be retained by NASA pending agreement as to
disposition.
CON~T!_!L

- ·2 c:-e0NFIDEN il1ili
s. NASA may continue to use the Smithsonian Institution for collection
and analysis of fragments by contractual arrangements, and may also
make appropriate arrangements for assistance with private agencies.
6.
The DOD will notify NASA when deorbits are expected and when collection
teams have been alerted to obtain the deorbiting fragments.
Also, DOD will
inform NASA of the results of such collection efforts whether successful
or not.
7.
The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) will participate in the analysis
of fragments of space vehicles which have utilized or transported, or are
suspected of having utilized or transported, radioactive materials or
special nuclear materials, and will exercise responsibility for special
nuclear materials, in accordance with its statutory responsibility.
In
addition, the AEC will continue to make available to NASA and the DOD its
special scientific capabilities.
s. Upon completion of technical analysis, the State Department will provide
policy guidance to NASA with respect to the disposition of fragments from
vehicles launched by foreign countries.
9. NASA will serve as the focal point for the release of public information
on such fragments.
-CONFIDENTIAL ""'

3'1
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
NATIONAL
AERONAUTICS
and
SPACE
COUNCIL
WASHINGTON
EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
October 24, 1962
MEMORANDUM TO
Mr. Charles E. Johnson
National Security Council
Washington, D. C.
Thank you. for your memorandum of October 23, as well
as for the re - structuring of the guidelines paper - both
on the subject of handling of space vehicle fragments.
As soon as I receive comments from the other agencies,
I will get in touch with you.
E. C. Welsh

SGONTIDENTIAL _— October 23, 1962

MEMORANDUM TO MR, E. C. WELSH,
EXECUTIVE SECRETARY,
NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE COUNCIL

Ed «

: In reference to the two papers you sent me, I would suggest
that you might wish to insert the phrase “or otherwise ropriate
disposition" at the end of the second paragraph of the pu state-
ment. A similar phrase is at the end of numbered 3 of

the "Guidelines" paper, and I frankly can't see why the
vali sma should choke on having it in the public statement. It
stands to reason that if we believe the satellite were hostile that
we would not return it to its point of origin.

When the "Guidelines" paper is distributed in the government,
I think it would be most ropriate in the form of a Presidentially-
approved NSAM. To tate this matter, I have put Your paper in
that form and attach a copy herewith.
} s/
i

Charles E. Johnson

Attachment
Draft NSAM on "Guidelines for
Interagency Handlin ng of Space

Vehicle Fragments".

F ) Th. pAb wet
Cc - Mr. Carl Kaysen (4; ‘fide LG he
NSC Files fe buy wees yyd
COonripENTIAL—
DECLASSIFIED
E.0. a ae Be

-Z-
L
5.
T e Department f
ef nae wil not y , A.$
h v
wh n c 1 ction te
r
th
orbiti
of
ch c
fr
ment .
ectio eff rts
rbit
rte to
be
DOD w 1 l o .i nform N
hethe
A of th re ulta
ucc:es u1 or not.
y ucb bject
nt
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.

NATIONAL

AERONAUTICS and

SPACE

COUNCIL

36
October 22, 1962

To:

Mr. Charles Johnson
National Security Council

Attached is a set of papers which
have been distributed to the
individuals indicated. I thought
it might be helpful for you to have
an advance look at this language
while it is being re-examined by
the respective interested agencies.
Let me know if you have any ideas
regarding it.
~

..... QL.;E. C. Welsh
Attachment: ECW memo-10/22/62

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE COUNCIL
Oetober 22, 1962
Mr, Howard Browa (AEC)
Dr. ¥, ©, Schuctte (BOD)
‘Me. Marvin Rebiasen (MAGA)
Me, Rebert Packard (State)
Seabject: Fragments of Spacecraft
In our interagency imecting of Ucteder 17, it was agreed that the Council
stafl would incorporate the suggestions, developed at the meeting, into
two papers. Those draft papers are attached, One is intended for con-
sidevation as a public release, and the other es & paper of intra-govern~
mental understanding.
le would be appreciated if the two papers would be examined carefully
and would be returued to me by October <9 with suggevted ixaprove-
ments noted thereon, if there are suggestions of major significance,
relatively miner, they will be appropriately incorporated and the papers
will then be returned for concurrence. These actions will aleo be
coordinated with the staff of the National Security Council,
& C, Welsh
This memorandur ig mnie if separated
from attachmente,

OFFICIAL LISF_ ONLY
ATTACHMENT A
PROPOSED PUBLIC STATEMENT ON HANDLING OF
SPACE VEHICLE FRAGMENTS
OCetober 16, 1962
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is designated
as the Government agency responsible for receiving, anshysing, and
identifying any fragmenta or suspected fragments of space vehicles of
of the United States or which otherwise come into its porssasion,
| _ Fragments identified as coming from vehicles launched by foreign
countries will be retained by NASA pending final arrangements for their
return to the launching country. |
In periorming these functione, MASA will coceéinate Salty with
OFFICIAL USE ONLY
364

fragments, or suspected iragments of space vehicles of ail types,
2 NASA will turn over to the Department of Defense as expeditiously
retura to the launching country, or other disposition,
4. All other fragmente will be retained by NASA pending agreement as
to disposition,

ATTACHMENT 6 (Cont'd)

5. The Department of Defense will notify NASA when deorbite are expected
and when collection teams have been alerted te obtain the deorditing
fragments. DGD will also inform NASA of the resulte of such collection
efforts whether successful or not, Any such objects obtained are to be
returned initially to NASA. Subsequent handling will be in accordance

& In accordance with its statutory responsibility, the Atomic Energy
Commission will participate in the analysis of fragments of space vehicles
which have utilized or transported, or are suspected of having utilised

7 NASA may continue to age the Smithsonian Institution for collection
and analysis of fragments by contractual arrangement, and ray alec

& Upon completion of technical analysia, the State Department will
provide policy guidance to NASA with respect te the return of vehicle
fragraente to the country where euch fragments were recovered or to
the country responsibile for launching the original vehicle.

> NASA will serve as the focal point for the release of public inforroation

CLASSIFIED DOCUMENT RECEIPT
TO <Name an
a
re.rs)
DATE OF TRANSFER
~r. Charle• Johnaon
National Security Council
Room #368, E. O. B. • Waehington ZS, D. C.
10/Z2/6Z
CLASSIFICATION
FROM <Name ""d address>
E. C. Welah
National Aeronautic• and Space Council
GeafiMatiel
General Services Administration
Drscri/ltion s11ch as File No., S11hjert, etc.)
TITLE
Fragments
NUMBER OF ENCLOSURES
(2)
NUMBER OF COPIES
(1)
THE ABOVE-IDENTIFIED MATTER WAS PERSONALLY RECEIVED BY ME:
SI
THIS COPY TO BE
RETAINED BY ADDRESSEE
GSA FORM 1237
MARCH 1960

October 17, 1962
TELECON
SUBJECT: Recovery of satellite fragments
Called R. W. Hale, Space Council, and informed him that
I would be unable to attend the meeting this afternoon in yiew of a
conflict in commitments. Suggested that my presence. was not
needed in view of my concurrence and support of the designation
of NASA to have responsibility for the program. Suggested the
development of an NSAM based on the draft statement attached in
order to get the program under way, even though Justice and State
might still have some legal and substantive questions. Hale was
pleaS'ed to hear my views, and said they agreed with those that
Welsh and he hold. He will inform Welsh of our conversation, and
will fill me in after the meeting.

s E. Johnson

Attachment
Draft statement for consideration at
meeting on 10/ 17/ 62, 2:30 p. m.,
in Rm. 218, E. 0. B.

NA TI O NA L
A E R O NA U TI C S
and
S PA C E
C O UN CI L
10/12/62
Mr. Johnson:
In accordance with telephone
conversation with your secre­
tary this morning.
R. W. Hale
0~
.,.,--,-

,

,

Draft Statement for Consideration at Meeting on October 17, 196 2
2:30 p. m. -- Room 2 18 E. 0. B.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration has
been designated as the Government agency responsible for obtaining,
analyzing, and identifying any fragments or suspected fragments from
space vehicles of all types which fall upon the territory of the United
States or which are turned over to the United States by foreign coun­
tries.

The only exception to this responsibility is that fragments

• ••which are readily identifiable as coming from space vehicles launched
by the Department of Defense will be turned over to the DOD as
expeditiously as possible.

NASA will be responsible for the disposition

of all fragments which do not come from DOD vehicles.

Fragments

identified as coming from vehicles launched by foreign countries will
be retained by NASA pending final arrangements for their return to the
launching country.
In performing these functions, NASA will coordinate fully
with other interested government and private agencies.

10/12/62
3:45 p.m.

3

Mr. Johnson:
(1) This is part of the correspondence
which will form the background for next Wed­
nesday's 2:30 meeting.
(2) Another draft paper, I was told,
is being sent to you for consideration at the
meeting.
Mabel

1 -
NA T I O N A . L
A E R O NA U T I C S
and
S PA C E
C O UN C I L
--3
Mabel:
A memo. similar to the
attached was sent to Mr. Bundy.
M.
uill

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L.(O

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
NATIONAL

AERONAUTICS

and

SPACE

COUNCIL

WASHINGTON

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

October 2, 1962
MEMORANDUM FOR
. Honorable McGeorge Bundy
Special Assistant to the President
for National Security Affairs
Subject:

Responsibility and Procedure Re Space Vehicle Fragments.

It has been suggested that there is need for a decision as to what
government agencies should have what responsibilities in regard
to obtaining, analyzing, and identifying fragments or suspected
fragments from space vehicles which fall on U.S. territory or
which otherwise come into U.S. possession.
It has likewise been suggested that the National Aeronautics and
Space Council is the appropriate agency to work out a coordinated
position on this matter. There are legal as well as operational
problems involved, and hence it would be helpful if this combina­
tion of issues were kept in mind in identifying a person or persons
from your agency to participate in a meeting on this matter.
To the extent that agreements or recommendations have already
been made on this problem, information re gar ding them would
contribute to such deliberations.
I would appreciate your having my office (Code 113 - Extension 2203)
advised as to who would represent your agency. Such individual or
individuals will then be contacted for the purpose of determining an
appropriate time for a meeting.

E. C. Welsh

'-II
DRAFT
November 1, 196Z

PUBLIC STATEMENT
ON HANDLING OF SPACE VEHICLE FRAGMENTS

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is designated
as the Government agency responsible for receiving, analyzing, and
identifying any fragments or suspected fragments of space vehicles of
all types, including the contents thereof, which fall upon the territory
of the United States or which otherwise come into its possession.
Fragments identified as coming from vehicles launched by foreign
countries will be retained by NASA pending final arrangements for their
return to the launching country or for other appropriate disposition.
In performing these functions, NASA will coordinate fully with
other Government agencies.

.

L( a.

. ...

DRAFT
November 1, l 96Z

PUBLIC STATEMENT
ON HANDLING OF SPACE VEHICLE FRAGMENTS

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is designated
as the Government agency responsible for receiving, analyzing, and
identifying any fragments or suspected fragments of space vehicles of
all types, including the contents thereof, which fall upon the territory
of the United States or which otherwise come into its possession.
Fragments identified as coming from vehicles launched by foreign
countries will be retained by NASA pending final arrangements for their
return to the launching country or for other appropriate disposition.
In performing these functions, NASA will coordinate fully with
other Government agencies.

q~
/

Draft Statement for Consideration at Meeting on October 17, 1962
2:30 p. m. -- Room 218 E. O. B.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration has
been designated as the Government agency responsible for obtaining,
analyzing, and identifying any fragments or suspected fragments from
space vehicles of all types which fall upon the territory of the United
States or which are turned over to the United States by foreign coun­
tries.

The only exception to this responsibility is that fragments

which are readily identifiable as coming from space vehicles launched
by the Department 0£ Defense will be turned over to the DOD as
expeditiously as possible.

NASA will be responsible for the disposition

of all fragments which do not come from DOD vehicles.

Fragments

identified as coming from vehicles launched by foreign countries will
be retained by NASA pending final arrangements for their return to the
launching country.
In performing these functions, NASA will coordinate fully
with other interested government and private agencies.

---L(3

Draft Statement for Consideration at ?vleeting on October 17, 1962
2:30 p. m. -- Room 218 E. O. B.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration has
been designated as the Government agency responsible for obtaining,
analyzing, and identifying any fragments or suspected fragments from
space vehicles of all types which fall upon the territory of the United
States or which are turned over to the United States by foreign coun­
tries.

The only exception to this responsibility is that fragments

which are readily identifiable as coming from space vehicles launched
by the Department of Defense will be turned over to the DOD as
expeditiously as possible.

NASA will be responsible for the disposition

of all fragments which do not come from DOD vehicles.

Fragments

identified as comlng frotn vehicles launched by foreign countries will
be retained by NASA pending final arrangements for their return to the
launching country.
In performing these functions, NASA will coordinate fully
with other interested government and private agencies.