First Man Into Space

The idea ofthisInternational Symposium on Basic Environmental Prob- lems of Man in Space came about two years ago from Professor von Klfrmlfn, President of the International Academy of Astronautics, and Dr. Malina, permanent representative of the International Astronautical Federation to Unesco. They soon talked other people into their plans, and a feeling diffused far and wide that such a symposium would serve to stimulate educational and scientific activity and progress, to encourage international cooperation in this particular problern area and to further advancement of research in the basic aspects of the many problems at hand. It was then learned with great satisfaction that Unesco became attracted by the objectives of the symposium, which are in harmony with the principal features of this organisation 1 s program in the natural scienc- es. Within the proposed budget allocations to various projects for 1961/ 62 Unesco decided to assist the International Astronautical Federation in preparing a Study Group to determlne the desirability and feasibility of holding a symposium on the problems of man in space.

For readers of The Astronaut Wives Club, The Mercury 13 reveals the little-known true story of the remarkable women who trained for NASA space flight.