Online Program
Online Lecture: Spies in the Sky — Reconnaissance Technology During the Cold War
Program No. 24677RJ
Join us on Monday, June 12th, 2023, at 2 p.m. (ET)/ 11 a.m. (PT) for a one-hour lecture and Q&A to learn about the use of space-based film cameras during the Cold War.
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At a Glance
During the Cold War, the United States evolved intelligence gathering technology, resulting in today’s real-time video capabilities. Initially, film was used in satellites to monitor treaty compliance and to gather information on the Soviet Union and other “denied areas.” The paramount orbiting vehicle, HEXAGON, was 60-feet long and took pictures from 100 miles up. The program was urgent and required cooperation between the CIA and the Air Force, guided by the National Reconnaissance Office. Join retired Air Force officer, Ricky Deutsch, for this unclassified briefing by someone “who was there” as he gives a first-person historical look at how high-resolution images were not only taken, but returned via parachute to be caught in mid-air. The camera system is said to be the most complicated ever built! This program was a critical Cold War asset and contributed to maintaining peace.
General Notes
Your online lecture will take place live over the course of 1-2 hours. All times are listed in the EASTERN time zone. If you live in a different time zone, please adjust your schedule accordingly. This live online experience uses Zoom Webinar, an easy-to-use web video service that includes closed captioning. All you need is an Internet connection and your computer. You will receive a confirmation email when you enroll, and a reminder email one week and one day before, as well as the morning of the event with a link and instructions on how to tune in. You will not be pictured on screen during the lecture, but you will have the opportunity to ask the instructor live questions using the Q&A box. Unless otherwise noted, all those who enroll in this program receive access to the live event as well as a recording of the lecture that you can watch any time within the two weeks following the live event.
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