3 (2) On 29 as or resuming "'tests outside the atmosphere": Aug 60 joint feasibility study (USAF & AEC) proposes Atlas Centaur device carrier and lead times are 18 - 24 (depending on on-continent overseas operation). DOD and especially ARPA are studying kili mechanisms and the like and AEC doesn't plan to initiate their own studies, 26 May TWX reply by Foster to Betts' 11 May letter stresses need to know if planning would be for definite window (2 - 4 months) or indefinite period (as plan is done for). Lists devices, purposes, ready dates, etc. and says very earliest could be minimum diagnostics test on 22 June. 26 May TWX from Hertford (ALO) to Betts on actions proposed to get NTS ready. Lists, concurs in, and gives cost and schedule figures on work required at NTS in FY 61 & 62 to attain capability for LRL and LASL proposed programs. Includes extensive drilling and construction. Proposes DMA set up mtg. with ALO, labs, and DASA to set up program. A38 Luedecke to Betts memo - 1 June 61 on proceeding with planning and procurement for a proposed program. After talking with Seaborg, okays go- ahead with these limited actions, emphasizing that care be exercised to Minimize people involved and amount of activity engaged in. In reply to above, Betts sent Luedecke "Draft Commission Paper" on 9 June 61 on readiness posture. Betts TWX to Foster on 19 June states that, for planning, DMA is not considering low altitude atmospheric shots, underground shots that might vent, and Plowshare shots. below 50 kn. Asks for info on specific shots foreseen 20 June 61 letter from Reeves to Betts on activities of committee of lab and ALO personnel developing a "Weapons Test Capability Plan - NTS." Asks guidance in several areas: (1) Should plans try to exclude Vela Uniform objectives or try to make VU & weapons testing parallel (sharing the tests)? (2) What containment criteria should be assumed? (3) Asks that a code name be selected. Memo to the Commission from Betts on 23 June - Stresses that confidentiality and minimum number of people will be involved. - Suggests further planning be done on operation already brought forth (combined LASL/LLL proposal) - Notes cover for NTS construction provided by Vela U. and suggests con- tinuing such digging, etc. to prepare for weapons testing and "blaming" ‘it on Vela Uniform and need to keep contractor busy. ~ Notes significant work needed to work on vertical holes for LASL preparedness but sees no good quiet way to do this! - Notes constant chance of astute observers picking up and speculating on suggested activities.