JK picked me up about 0730 and we went to the PRESS Admin. Bldg. on Kwaj to try to talk to ELE. We finally made the connection after 3 hour’s delay. I mentioned the existence of the ROTI film, and that this activity could well use the same thing that we did for the STV program; he responded to this by asking for a report and when I would return. About 11 March I said. Also asked for a copy of PA-27 and he offered to send 3, so I suggested 2 to JK & one to Dr. Brown (Robert R.)
JK went up to Roi at 1255 after lunch and I went on the 3:55 PM plane, after lying down a bit — also picked up my laundry.
The stations are geared for the event, and I set up the Praktina to get a picture of the RV. It was finally scrubbed after counting down to — 1 minute!
JK gave me an excellent discussion on the stars which were brilliant. We found the Southern Cross, and many others.
Ret’d. on the taxi a/c about 11:30 PM, will try again tomorrow.
1/3 Overcast
Talked to ELE at L2 via RT. He wants a report! It took 3 hrs to get thru to him; he will send down 3 cys of PA-27.
Picked up my laundry — a shirt cost 16¢! It was really well done. Then went to “Macys” and picked up a pair of slippers, a shirt, a Nikon F camera, cable release, some film, and band aids.
After laying down some more, went up to ROI on the 3:55 PM plane for the shoot. The station was geared up with the Versamat holding about +/- .03! I think this is remarkable. The scratches have also been removed. I set up the Praktina on the shop roof, and got ready to photograph the event, but it was scrubbed about 11:15 PM.
During the evening which was remarkably clear, AS & JK pointed out many stars & constellations. It was most pleasant.
About 35 persons were on the a/c n the return trip to Kwaj; leaving about 11:30 PM.
If Mr McNamara went to witness a few firings, he wouldn’t be so anxious to send the manned bombers.
Jim showed me his 10″ reflecting telescope. He made the equatorial adjustable mount during his work as a welding engineer. The tube is from carpet rolling material. The mirror is a 10″ job acquired about ten years ago at a cost of $75. There are 5 or 6 eye pieces and a 6x rt angle spotting scope. The eyepieces and mirror are in a well-made box for traveling. I’d like to have it, but how to get it to Lexington? I’ll discuss it with him.