Chapter 306: Star Wars Program!
In this era, nuclear deterrence is the shadow looming over everyone’s heads.
From the Berlin Crisis to the Cuban Missile Crisis, the shadow of nuclear deterrence has never gone away.
Especially for European countries, the deterrence from nuclear weapons is so obvious.
Simply put, the Soviet Union borders Europe, and missile ranges can cover the entire European continent.
Even though England is an isolated island overseas, it still faces the deterrence of nuclear weapons.
Otherwise, during Lin Ran’s visit to London back then, Ten Downing Street would not have gone to great lengths to chat with Lin Ran about the Sky Arrow plan.
And now the professor is personally telling everyone here that the Soviet Union has no sincerity regarding the non-weaponization of space, with satellites loaded with nuclear materials floating in the sky, potentially falling at any moment and causing nuclear contamination.
This undoubtedly had a tremendous impact on all the participants.
No one doubts that the professor would lie, because Lin Ran’s prestige and status make it unnecessary to lie, and his public image has always leaned toward being friendly to the Soviet Union, promoting peace, and pushing for US-Soviet space cooperation.
If it were Hoover or McKinsey, there might be a possibility of fabrication, but Lin Ran’s words are impossible.
This is the common sentiment of all the representatives present.
The hall instantly erupted. Representatives whispered to each other, murmuring, with voices surging like a tide.
Members of the England delegation frowned, discussing in low voices the potential risks of nuclear-powered satellites.
The France representative raised his hand, seemingly wanting to speak immediately.
The India and Sweden representatives exchanged worried glances, gripping their pens tightly, ready to take notes.
The area where the Soviet Union delegation sat was particularly restless.
The Poland representative whispered to Fyodorov: “What are they saying? Aren’t our satellites for scientific research?”
The Czechoslovakia representative frowned, flipping through documents, trying to find a basis for response.
Arthur Joseph Goldberg pounded the table and roared: “This is unacceptable, the Soviet person’s behavior is blatant crime! It is a betrayal and insult to 122 countries in the United Nations!”
Arthur Joseph Goldberg is the American ambassador to the United Nations, with a delicate identity; he was born into a Russian Jewish immigrant family and served as a lawyer starting in 1938.
After World War II, he joined the Donkey Party, served as a member of the Foreign Relations Committee in 1961, Minister of Labor from 1961 to 1962, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1962 to 1965, and ambassador to the United Nations from 1965 to 1968.
After failing to be elected governor of New York State in 1970, Goldberg served as chairman of the American Jewish Committee until retirement.
A proper Jewish big shot.
Meanwhile, the Soviet Union ambassador to the United Nations, Nikolai Fyodorov, was dumbfounded; he was momentarily at a loss, not knowing how to respond to Lin Ran’s accusations.
Because he was completely unaware of the nuclear-powered satellite matter; the Kremlin had never informed him.
Fyodorov’s face turned ashen, his hands clenched tightly on the table. Anger flashed in his eyes, not only toward America but also toward the Kremlin.
In the middle of this year, Kosygin is to visit America to have a good talk with Lyndon Johnson about the Vietnam War.
Originally, both sides hoped to go to Hanoi; even if Lyndon Johnson himself did not come, talks between Dean Rusk and Kosygin would work.
But they ultimately decided to hold negotiations in Gettysburg near New York in the middle of this year, with Lyndon Johnson attending personally.
This is also the famous Gettysburg Summit in later history.
Gettysburg has another famous reason: the Gettysburg Address, where Lincoln once delivered a speech.
Fyodorov quickly calmed himself with deep breaths; what he needed now was calm calculation, not emotional venting.
He quickly organized Moscow’s instructions in his mind: absolutely do not let America use this occasion for political propaganda.
He whispered to his assistant beside him: “They are stirring up trouble; our satellites are completely legal.”
U Thant rang the gavel again, trying to restore order.
U Thant: “Please be quiet, ladies and gentlemen representatives.
The professor has not finished speaking, and after the professor’s speech, we will also give the Soviet Union delegation a chance to speak to respond to these accusations.”
Lin Ran raised his hands in a downward pressing gesture.
The audience gradually quieted down.
“Today, I stand here with immense honor and a profound sense of responsibility, joining all of you present to celebrate the signing of the Outer Space Treaty.
As we all know, this treaty is a milestone in international law and diplomacy, laying a solid foundation for humanity’s exploration and use of outer space.
It embodies our common commitment to peace.
By prohibiting the placement of weapons of mass destruction in orbit, on the Moon, or on other celestial bodies, we have taken a crucial step to prevent conflicts on Earth from extending to the universe.
At this historic moment, we must face the challenges and responsibilities brought by space exploration.
However, the Soviet Union’s behavior is a trampling of this treaty.
From my professional knowledge, I do not believe that the Soviet Union has conducted sufficient testing of nuclear-powered satellites to ensure their safe recovery without causing nuclear leaks.
I am not targeting the Soviet Union; this is the harsh reality—the Soviet Union lacks sufficient technical reserves in the field of aerospace.
These risks are real.
These nuclear-powered satellites are in space, and they could crash into any country, not necessarily America, but possibly even the Soviet Union’s own ally countries.
This is irresponsibility toward all humanity.”
The audience erupted again, with diplomats from Poland and Czechoslovakia looking at Fyodorov with puzzled expressions.
Lin Ran’s prestige is the best proof.
After quiet was restored, Lin Ran continued: “However, if the Soviet Union’s technology is too powerful, that would also create a dangerous situation.
If they can control nuclear-powered satellites to crash at precise locations, even achieving mid-course or terminal acceleration, wouldn’t that make them satellites perpetually hanging in low Earth orbit?
Normally communication or remote sensing satellites, but when war breaks out, they transform into satellite nuclear bombs, fully exploiting the ambiguities in the Outer Space Treaty.
What I want to say is, if the Soviet Union insists on launching nuclear-powered satellites, then America will also consider launching nuclear-powered satellites. I hope the Soviet people realize that if everyone competes in this capability, the NASA I lead will achieve the latter first.”
This is a real threat.
In the future, low Earth orbit would be hung with American or Soviet nuclear bomb satellites—what then?
If they really have terminal acceleration as the professor said, how to intercept? Impossible to intercept at all.
With the precision shown by NASA in the US-Soviet joint moon landing, wouldn’t it mean that even the president sitting in the presidential mansion could face a nuclear bomb falling from the sky?
Can you handle this blow?
Also a space-based weapon, Lin Ran proposed this concept, scaring the pants off all the representatives present.
Risks are escalating rapidly.
What was supposed to be a peaceful conference turned into an unprecedented nuclear crisis.
Therefore, when Lin Ran stepped down from the stage and returned to the American delegation seat, representatives from Western European countries ignored conference discipline.
“Professor, you must stay calm! We will urge the Soviet Union not to launch nuclear-powered satellites anymore!”
“Professor, please don’t do that; we should keep space as a pure land of peace and cooperation, not turn it into another battlefield for nuclear rivalry!”
“Yes, professor, please think twice.”
Every one of these Western European representatives did not want to see such a situation happen.
They are on the front line of the Cold War; once it blows up, it would hit them.
Lin Ran looked at these scared white people and felt emotional inside; actually, during the Cold War, Europe suffered little concrete pain beyond psychological pressure.
Wars broke out in places like South America and Asia.
Europe had it too good—didn’t get hit during the Cold War, and after it ended, aggressively divided the cake.
“Good, next we invite the Soviet Union representative to speak.” Secretary-General U Thant said.
Fyodorov stood up, straightened his suit, and walked steadily to the podium.
His steps were firm, and his face had regained the composure unique to diplomats.
Fyodorov: “Mr. Secretary-General, distinguished representatives, I must categorically refute Mr. Lin’s accusations.
The Soviet Union is fully committed to the Outer Space Treaty and the peaceful use of space.
Our satellites use nuclear power sources, mainly radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTG), to support long-term scientific research and ocean observation.
These technologies have undergone rigorous testing, are safe and reliable, and will absolutely not threaten Earth.”
He paused, staring directly at Lin Ran with a challenging look in his eyes.
Fyodorov: “In addition, I must point out that America also launched the SNAP-10A satellite equipped with a nuclear reactor in 1965.
Mr. Lin’s accusations seem to selectively ignore this fact.
The Outer Space Treaty prohibits the deployment of nuclear weapons, not nuclear power technology.
Our actions fully comply with the treaty provisions.”
Ambassador Goldberg sitting next to Lin Ran whispered: “Professor, he is dodging the main point; the risks of RTG and nuclear reactors are completely different.”
Fyodorov turned to the assembly, his tone more firm.
“The Soviet Union has always been a pioneer in space exploration, and we will continue to advance science and technology for the welfare of all humanity.
I urge all representatives not to be swayed by unfounded fears, but to focus on the spirit of cooperation represented by the treaty.”
Fyodorov returned to his seat, and discussions in the hall continued unabated.
Some representatives acknowledged his defense; representatives from Eastern Bloc countries nodded one after another, and the Poland representative patted his shoulder in support.
But Western representatives seemed unimpressed.
The France representative raised his hand to speak: “Mr. Secretary-General, although I acknowledge the Soviet Union’s commitment to peace, transparency of nuclear-powered satellites is crucial.
I suggest establishing an international committee to supervise that such technologies are not used in space.”
The Sweden and India representatives nodded in agreement; the India representative added: “Transparency and cooperation are the cornerstones of ensuring space security.”
U Thant pondered for a moment and nodded: This is a suggestion worth considering. I propose discussing the feasibility of establishing such a committee at the next meeting.
The meeting continued, with the tense atmosphere in the hall still thick.
The air in the venue seemed frozen, with everyone thinking about the future of space and whether the Cold War would cast nuclear shadows onto this new domain.
All the representatives’ gazes turned to Lin Ran, expecting a response from this NASA senior official, but Lin Ran closed his eyes to rest, not speaking again, appearing lost in thought.
Because what he needed to do was done; he had unveiled the prelude to the Star Wars Program.
The next morning, Lyndon Johnson held a nationwide live television broadcast at the White House, followed by a press conference for reporters.
“Dear American fellow citizens,
Tonight, with deep concern for national security and humanity’s future, I address you.
Just yesterday, the United Nations passed the Outer Space Treaty, a historic agreement prohibiting nuclear weapons in space and committing outer space to peaceful purposes.
This treaty is our common commitment to peace and cooperation, an important step for humanity toward the sea of stars.
However, even as we celebrate this achievement, we must remain vigilant.
Our adversary—the Soviet Union—has taken disturbing actions, challenging the treaty’s peaceful spirit and threatening our national and global security.
According to reliable intelligence, over the past year, the Soviet Union has launched at least ten nuclear-powered satellites into low Earth orbit.
These satellites, known as radar ocean reconnaissance satellites RORSAT, are equipped with powerful radar systems to track our naval vessels and monitor our military activities.
These satellites are not for peaceful scientific exploration but serve military purposes, aimed at enhancing the Soviet Union’s strategic advantage in the Cold War.
Let me explain why these satellites need nuclear power: their radar systems require continuous and powerful energy supply to operate around the clock in low Earth orbit.
Low orbit means satellites frequently enter Earth’s shadowed region, where solar panels cannot provide stable electricity.
Additionally, large solar panels cause rapid orbital decay due to atmospheric drag.
Therefore, the Soviet Union chose small nuclear reactors, typically using highly enriched uranium, to provide about 3 kilowatts of power for these satellites.
This technology enables them to monitor our ships in real time, even at night or in bad weather.
However, this nuclear power technology brings enormous risks.
If these satellites malfunction or reenter the atmosphere uncontrollably, the nuclear reactors could release radioactive materials, contaminating vast areas and causing catastrophic consequences for human life and the environment.
The Soviet Union continued launching such satellites on the day the treaty was signed; this behavior is not only worrying but a disregard for global security.
Faced with this challenge, we cannot sit idly by.
Today, I announce here the launch of a bold new plan to protect our nation and ensure our leadership in space.
This plan is a proposal I put forward after full communication with the professor.
I call it the Star Wars Program, which will deploy up to ten thousand small satellites to build an unprecedented global surveillance network.
These satellites will be equipped with advanced sensors and communication systems, capable of tracking every object in orbit: from the smallest fragments to Soviet nuclear-powered satellites.
This network will combine with our existing space surveillance and tracking systems, significantly enhancing our monitoring capabilities to swiftly respond to any space threats.
In addition, we are developing a revolutionary global positioning system, tentatively named the Global Positioning System.
This system will consist of a constellation of satellites providing precise positioning and timing information worldwide.
This will not only improve the precision of our military operations but also bring profound impacts to civilian navigation, aviation, and scientific research.
Combined with the Star Wars Program’s surveillance network, we will have unparalleled capabilities to maintain national security and defend the interests of the free world.
I call on Congress and all American people to support this crucial plan.
The challenges in space are as severe as those on Earth; we must meet them with the same determination and innovative spirit.
We have proven America’s wisdom and courage, from the Manhattan Project to the Apollo Program, breaking the bounds of the impossible time and again.
Today, we will prove once more that we can protect our skies and safeguard our future.
Let us unite to ensure space is a realm of peace, exploration, and progress, not a stage for conflict and danger.
Let us work together to guard this pure land of the stars for our descendants.
Thank you, and may God bless America.”
During Lyndon Johnson’s television speech, reporters from all over the world gathered in the White House East Room.
Everyone was excited, waiting for the upcoming interviews.
This was big news.
Whether Soviet nuclear-powered satellites, the Star Wars Program, or the unprecedented ten thousand satellites, all stimulated the reporters’ nerves.
After the speech, Johnson, accompanied by Secretary of State Rusk and NASA Director Lin Ran, entered the East Room; reporters’ hands shot up like a forest.
“President Johnson, may I ask you a question?”
“President Johnson, are the ten thousand satellites we are launching also nuclear-powered satellites?”
“President Johnson”
White House Press Secretary George Christian tapped the microphone and said: “Next is the press conference segment; I will give each of you a chance to ask questions one by one.”
The first question made Johnson unable to hold back.
“President Johnson, was the Star Wars Program designed by you or by the professor?”
Lyndon Johnson looked displeased: Didn’t I say in my speech that I proposed it and then discussed it with the professor? You’re sitting in the East Room listening to my speech and still ask this.
Before answering, he glanced at George Christian, who immediately understood: don’t let such clueless reporters in next time.
“Obviously, this is a plan I proposed. After the professor and I proposed reusable rockets and multiple satellites per launch technology, I have been thinking about ways to comprehensively enhance America’s defense capabilities.
Under such thinking, the Star Wars Program was born!”
