Exploring the Unknown: Selected Documents in ... - The Black Vault

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First Steps into Space: Projects Mercury and Gemini
astronauts was for the Skylab program, 1973 to 1974. If a crew had to return to Earth from the
orbital workshop, an Apollo capsule was available to return the crew.
Document I-59
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE COUNCIL
WASHINGTON
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
Subject: Space Rescue.
EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
MAY 21, 1965
The space rescue issue involves the development of a capability to send up a
spacecraft to save the life or lives of astronauts whose equipment has failed while
in space.
I have discussed the question of developing such a capability with Jim Webb and
he feels that it is too early to attempt to develop a practicable competence for
such a purpose. In any event, it is something which should be studied, and the
President should know that it is being studied and should be prepared to respond
as to why we do not have such a capability should a tragedy in space occur.
An unsolicited space rescue proposal has been prepared by the Martin Company.
Mr. Earl Cocke, former National Commander of the American Legion and now a
consultant to the Martin Company, is representing that Company in attempting
to sell their space rescue proposal. He has indicated that he plans to outline his
proposal to the President and has left a brief summary and a detailed presentation
with the President’s office. Such documents have, in turn, been transmitted to me.
In brief, the Martin Company proposes a National Orbital Rescue Service to
begin promptly and in a multi-phased manner. This would call for the building of
a space rescue capability over the next ten years at an estimated cost of about $50
million per year. That figure would include a provisional system which could be
gotten ready in a relatively short period and also a permanent system.
I hold no particular brief for the Martin proposal but, in view of Mr.
Cocke’s assertions, I thought it advisable that the President know about it. If a
study is desired, it would be appreciated to be so advised.
[Signed]
E.C.Welsh