The Satellite Rocket Vehicle

Political and Psychological Problems

Paul Kecskemeti

ResearchPublished 1950

This paper deals with the probable political effects resulting from the launching of a satellite vehicle under United States auspices, and from its successful use for purposes of military intelligence. The main questions discussed are: How is the satellite program likely to affect the foreign audiences' image of United States capabilities and intent? What influence may it be expected to have on Soviet political behavior? Conclusions include a recommendation of advance publicity rather than secrecy, as well as the launching of a first experimental satellite over the equator prior to launching a second one on an oblique orbit to be used for intelligence purposes. It is argued that this course is likely to minimize the risks inherent in possible Soviet countermeasures.

Topics

Document Details

Citation

Chicago Manual of Style

Kecskemeti, Paul, The Satellite Rocket Vehicle: Political and Psychological Problems. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation, 1950. https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_memoranda/RM567.html.
BibTeX RIS

Research conducted by

This publication is part of the RAND research memorandum series. The research memorandum series, a product of RAND from 1948 to 1973, included working papers meant to report current results of RAND research to appropriate audiences.

This document and trademark(s) contained herein are protected by law. This representation of RAND intellectual property is provided for noncommercial use only. Unauthorized posting of this publication online is prohibited; linking directly to this product page is encouraged. Permission is required from RAND to reproduce, or reuse in another form, any of its research documents for commercial purposes. For information on reprint and reuse permissions, please visit www.rand.org/pubs/permissions.

RAND is a nonprofit institution that helps improve policy and decisionmaking through research and analysis. RAND's publications do not necessarily reflect the opinions of its research clients and sponsors.