Astronaut Scientific Debriefings, 1962-1963

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Mr. Dubin

In reply refer to: SGA(JRG:em1)

FEB 2 3 1962

MEMORANDUM for the Files

Subject: Telephone conversation with Dr. John O'Keefe from Cape Canaveral

The following information was gathered from a con-
versation with Dr. O'Keefe on Wednesday, Feb. 21, 1962:

Astronaut Glenn reported having seen small luminous particles during his flight. They appeared to be moving at a speed of about three or four miles per hour. They were apparently not more than 100 feet away from the capsule, and were visible by binocular vision. Their color was golden like fireflies, and they seemed to be more to the rear of the capsule than ahead of it, though they were visible for great distances all around. These particles were visible only at sunrise (not at sunset), and the capsule seemed to be immersed in them. They very definitely had nothing to do with the capsule or its movement.

Glenn also reported that very clear pictures of the stars, including Orion, had been taken with the UV camera, although the capsule motion had caused a "wiggly" view.

Jocelyn R. Gill
Staff Scientist
Astronomy & Solar Physics

U.V. camera: 2300-3000° A° - the Vycor window of the capsule