I am very pleased to submit this Nineteenth Semiannual Report of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, covering the period January 1-June 30, 1968, for transmittal to Congress in accordance with section 206(a) of the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958. These months were filled with constructive activity culminating in - such concrete advances as the successful Apollo 5 and 6 unmanned orbital missions which moved the manned space flight program into readiness for the first manned Apollo flights, the landing of the last of the Surveyor series on the Moon for a highly productive period of TV transmission and experiments on the lunar surface, and the launching and operation of a number of other scientific, weather, and communications satellites. The accomplishments recorded here, along with the many supporting activities described in detail, prepared the way for continued progress in the Apollo program and the scheduled achievement of the manned flights called for in that program. It is a highly satisfactory record and evidence that the Nation is advancing steadily in its efforts to conquer space for the benefit of all. Respectfully yours, T. O. PAINE, |