Technology invades the modern world

Chapter 306 The Star Wars Program!

In this era, nuclear deterrence is a shadow hanging over everyone's head.

From the Berlin Crisis to the Cuban Missile Crisis, the shadow of nuclear deterrence has never gone away.

For European countries in particular, the deterrent effect of nuclear weapons is so evident.

It's very simple. The Soviet Union and Russia bordered Europe, and their missiles had a range that could cover the entire continent of Europe.

Even though England is an isolated island, it still faces the threat of nuclear weapons.

Otherwise, back when Lin Ran went to London, 10 Downing Street would have tried every means to talk to him about the Arrow of the Sky Project.

Now the professor is here to tell everyone that the Soviet Union had no sincerity in deweaponizing space. Satellites carrying nuclear materials were floating in the sky and could fall down at any time, causing nuclear contamination.

This undoubtedly had a huge impact on all participants.

No one doubted that the professor would lie, because Lin Ran's reputation and status made it unnecessary for him to lie. Moreover, Lin Ran's public image had always been one of being friendly to the Soviet Union and promoting peace and US-Soviet space cooperation.

If it were Hoover or McKinsey, there might be a possibility of forgery, but with Lin Ran, it's impossible.

This is the common sentiment of all the representatives present.

The hall erupted in chaos. The delegates whispered and murmured amongst themselves, their voices rising like a tidal wave.

Members of the English delegation frowned and discussed in hushed tones the potential risks of nuclear-powered satellites.

The French representative raised his hand, seemingly wanting to speak immediately.

The representatives from India and Sweden exchanged worried glances, their pens gripping tightly as they prepared to take notes.

The area where the Soviet delegation was located was particularly turbulent.

The Polish representative whispered to Fedorenko, "What are they talking about? Aren't our satellites for scientific research?"

The Czechoslovakian representative frowned, flipping through the documents, trying to find a basis for a response.

Arthur Joseph Goldberg slammed his fist on the table and roared, "This is unacceptable! The Soviet Union's actions are blatant crimes! It is a betrayal and an insult to the 122 member states of the United Nations!"

Arthur Joseph Goldberg was America's ambassador to the United Nations. His background was complex; he was born into a family of Russian Jewish immigrants and worked as a lawyer from 1938 onwards.

He joined the Democratic Party after World War II, served as a member of the Council on Foreign Relations in 1961, as Secretary of Labor from 1961 to 1962, as a Vice Justice of the Supreme Court from 1962 to 1965, and as Ambassador to the United Nations from 1965 to 1968.

After losing his bid for governor of New York in 1970, Goldberg served as chair of the American Jewish Committee until his retirement.

A bona fide Jewish bigwig.

Meanwhile, Nikolai Fedorenko, the Soviet ambassador to the United Nations, was dumbfounded. He was momentarily speechless and didn't know how to respond to Lin Ran's accusations.

He knew absolutely nothing about the nuclear-powered satellite; the Kremlin had never informed him.

Fedorenko's face was ashen, his hands clenched tightly on the table. Anger flashed in his eyes, an anger directed not only at America but also at the Kremlin.

Kosygin will visit America in the middle of this year to have a serious talk with Lyndon Johnson about the Vietnam War.

Both sides originally hoped to go to Hanoi, even if Lyndon Johnson himself did not come, Dean Rusk and Kosygin would be fine to talk.

But they ultimately decided to hold talks in Gettysburg, near New York, in the middle of this year, with Lyndon Johnson attending in person.

This is also the famous Gettysburg Summit that would be known to later generations.

Gettysburg is also famous for another reason: the Gettysburg Address, where Lincoln once delivered his speech.

Fedorenko quickly calmed himself down with deep breaths; what he needed now was calm calculation, not emotional outburst.

He quickly processed Moscow's instructions in his mind: America must not be allowed to use this occasion for political propaganda.

He whispered to his assistant beside him, "They are stirring up trouble. Our satellite is completely legal."

Wu Dan struck the gavel again, attempting to restore order.

Wu Dan: "Please be quiet, fellow delegates."

The professor hadn't finished speaking, and after he did, we should also give the Soviet delegation a chance to speak in response to these accusations.

Lin Ran raised his hands and made a downward pressing gesture.

The audience gradually quieted down.

"Today I stand here with immense honor and a profound sense of responsibility to celebrate the signing of the Outer Space Treaty with all of you present."

As is widely known, this treaty is a milestone in the fields of international law and diplomacy, laying a solid foundation for humanity's exploration and utilization of outer space.

It embodies our shared commitment to peace.

By banning the placement of weapons of mass destruction in orbit, on the Moon, or on other celestial bodies, we have taken a crucial step in preventing conflicts on Earth from spilling over into space.

At this historic moment, we must face up to the challenges and responsibilities brought about by space exploration.

However, the actions of Soviet Russia were a violation of this treaty.

Based on my professional knowledge, I do not believe that the Soviet Union conducted sufficient testing on the nuclear-powered satellite to ensure its safe recovery without causing a nuclear leak.

I'm not targeting the Soviet Union; it's just a harsh reality that the Soviet Union lacked sufficient technological reserves in the aerospace field.

These risks are real.

These nuclear-powered satellites are in space, and they could crash in any country, not just America, but also in one of the Soviet Union's own allies.

This is irresponsible towards all of humanity.

The audience erupted in another uproar, with Polish and Czechoslovakian diplomats looking at Fedorenko with puzzled expressions.

Lin Ran's reputation is the best proof of this.

After things quieted down, Lin Ran continued, "However, if Soviet technology becomes too powerful, it could also create a dangerous situation."

If they can control nuclear-powered satellites to crash at precise locations, or even accelerate them in the mid-course or terminal phase, wouldn't that be like a satellite that's always suspended in low Earth orbit?

Normally they are communication or remote sensing satellites, but when war breaks out, they transform into satellite nuclear weapons, making full use of the ambiguity of the Outer Space Treaty.

What I'm trying to say is that if the Soviet Union insisted on launching a nuclear-powered satellite, then America would also consider launching one. I hope the Soviets realized that if we were to compete on this capability, NASA, under my leadership, would achieve the latter first.

This is a real threat.

In the future, if the low Earth orbit is filled with America-class or Soviet nuclear missile satellites, that would be terrible.

If it really has a terminal acceleration function as the professor said, how can it be intercepted? It's impossible to intercept it at all.

Given the precision NASA demonstrated during the US-Soviet joint moon landing, wouldn't it be possible for a president sitting in the presidential palace to face a nuclear bomb falling from the sky?
Can you withstand this blow?

Lin Ran's concept of space-based weapons terrified all the delegates present.

The risks are increasing 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 took his seat in the Americas representative's seat, the representatives from the surrounding Western European countries didn't even care about meeting discipline.

"Professor, please stay calm! We will urge the Soviet Union to stop launching nuclear-powered satellites!"

"Professor, please don't do that! We should ensure that space remains a haven of peace and cooperation, not a battlefield for nuclear conflict!"

"Yes, Professor, please think it over carefully."

Every single one of the representatives from Western Europe wanted to avoid this situation.

They were on the front lines of the Cold War; if war broke out, wouldn't they be the ones getting bombed?

Looking at the group of white people who were terrified, Lin Ran felt a deep sense of emotion. In fact, apart from the psychological pressure, Europe did not suffer much concrete pain during the Cold War.

The wars broke out in places like South America and Asia.

Europe is having such a good time. They weren't attacked during the Cold War, and after the Cold War ended, they're ruthlessly dividing up the spoils.

“Alright, next we would like to invite the representative of Soviet Russia to speak,” said Secretary-General Wu Dan.

Fedorenko stood up, straightened his suit, and walked steadily toward the podium.

His steps were firm, and the composure characteristic of a diplomat had returned to his face. Fedorenko: "Mr. Secretary General, distinguished delegates, I must categorically refute Mr. Lin's accusations."

Soviet Russia was fully committed to the Outer Space Treaty and the peaceful use of outer space.

Our satellites use nuclear power sources, primarily radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs), to support long-term scientific research and ocean observation.

These technologies have undergone rigorous testing, are safe and reliable, and pose absolutely no threat to Earth.

He paused for a moment, looked directly at Lin Ran, and his eyes held a challenge.

Fedorenko: "In addition, I would like to 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 were entirely in accordance with the treaty.

Ambassador Goldberg, sitting next to Lin Ran, said in a low voice, "Professor, he's downplaying the issue. The risks of RTGs and nuclear reactors are completely different."

Fedorenko turned to the conference, his tone becoming even more resolute.

"The Soviet Union has always been a pioneer in space exploration, and we will continue to advance science and technology for the benefit of all mankind."

I urge all delegates not to be swayed by unfounded fears, but to focus on the spirit of cooperation embodied in the treaty.

Fedorenko returned to his seat, but the discussion in the hall continued unabated.

Some delegates expressed their approval of his defense, and the delegates from the Eastern Bloc countries nodded in agreement. The Polish delegate patted him on the shoulder in support.

However, representatives from Western countries seemed unconvinced.

The French representative raised his hand and said: "Mr. Secretary-General, while we, the Soviet Union, are committed to peace, transparency regarding nuclear-powered satellites is of paramount importance."

I propose the establishment of an international committee to oversee the prohibition of such technologies in space.

The representatives from Sweden and India nodded in agreement, with the Indian representative adding, "Transparency and cooperation are the cornerstones of ensuring space security."

Wu Dan pondered for a moment and nodded: "This is a suggestion worth considering. I propose that we discuss the feasibility of establishing such a committee at the next meeting."

The meeting continued, but the tense atmosphere in the hall remained strong.

The air in the room seemed to freeze as everyone pondered the future of space and whether the Cold War would cast the shadow of nuclear war over this new territory.

All the representatives turned their attention to Lin Ran, expecting a response from this NASA official, but Lin Ran closed his eyes to rest and did not speak again, seemingly lost in thought.

Because he had done what he needed to do, he had set the stage for the Star Wars program.

The following morning, Lyndon Johnson gave a nationally televised address from the White House, followed by a press conference for reporters.

"Dear fellow Americans"
Tonight, I address you with deep concern for national security and the future of humanity.

Just yesterday, the United Nations adopted the Outer Space Treaty, a historic agreement that bans the deployment of nuclear weapons in space and pledges that outer space be used for peaceful purposes.

This treaty is our shared commitment to peace and cooperation, and an important step for humanity toward the stars.

However, even as we celebrate this achievement, we must remain vigilant.

Our adversary, Soviet Russia, has taken disturbing actions that challenge the peaceful spirit of the treaty and threaten the security of our country and the world.

According to reliable intelligence, the Soviet Union launched at least ten nuclear-powered satellites into low Earth orbit in the past year.

These satellites, known as RORSAT (Radio Ocean Reconnaissance Satellites), are equipped with powerful radar systems to track our naval vessels and monitor our military activities.

These satellites were not intended for peaceful scientific exploration, but rather for 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 a continuous and powerful energy supply to operate around the clock in low Earth orbit.

Low Earth orbit means that satellites frequently enter Earth's shadow, making it impossible for solar panels to provide a stable power supply.

In addition, large solar panels can cause rapid orbital decay due to atmospheric drag.

Therefore, the Soviet Union opted for small nuclear reactors, typically using highly enriched uranium, to provide these satellites with approximately 3 kilowatts of power.

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 re-enter the atmosphere uncontrollably, the nuclear reactors could release radioactive materials, contaminating large areas and causing catastrophic consequences for human life and the environment.

The fact that the Soviet Union continued launching such satellites on the very day the treaty was signed is not only worrying but also a disregard for global security.

We cannot stand idly by in the face of this challenge.

Today, I am here to announce a bold new initiative to protect our nation and ensure our leadership in the space domain.

This plan was proposed by me and finalized after thorough communication with the professor.

I call it the Star Wars program, which will build an unprecedented global surveillance network by deploying up to 10,000 small satellites.

These satellites will be equipped with advanced sensors and communication systems, enabling them to track every object in orbit: from the smallest debris to Soviet nuclear-powered satellites.

This network, combined with our existing space exploration and tracking systems, will significantly enhance our surveillance capabilities, ensuring we can respond swiftly to any space threat.

In addition, we are developing a revolutionary global positioning system, tentatively named Global Positioning System.

This system will consist of a group of satellites that will provide precise positioning and time information globally.

This will not only improve the precision of our military operations, but will also have a profound impact on civilian navigation, aviation, and scientific research.

Combined with the surveillance network of the Star Wars program, we will have unparalleled capabilities to maintain national security and defend the interests of the free world.

I call on Congress and all the people of America to support this vital plan.

The challenges in space are just as severe as those on Earth, and 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, we have repeatedly pushed the boundaries of the impossible.

Today, we will prove once again that we can protect our skies and defend our future.

Let us unite to ensure that space becomes a realm of peace, exploration, and progress, not a stage for conflict and danger.

Let us work together to protect this pristine land of stars for future generations.

Thank you everyone, and may God bless America.

During Lyndon Johnson's televised address, the East Room of the White House was packed with reporters from all over the world.

Everyone was excited and eagerly awaiting the upcoming interview.

This is big news.

Whether it's the Soviet Union's nuclear-powered satellites, the Star Wars program, or the unprecedented 10,000 satellites, everything is stimulating the nerves of journalists.

After the speech, Johnson, accompanied by Secretary of State Rusk and NASA Administrator Lin Ran, walked into the East Room, where reporters' hands were raised high like a forest.

"President Johnson, may I ask you a question?"

"President Johnson, are the 10,000 satellites we're going to launch also nuclear-powered satellites?"

President Johnson

White House Press Secretary George Christian tapped the microphone and said, "Now we'll begin the press briefing, and I will give you all a chance to ask questions."

The very first question was enough to make Johnson lose his composure.

"President Johnson, did you design the Star Wars program or did the professor design it?"

Lyndon Johnson looked displeased. "Didn't I say in my speech that it was my idea, and then I discussed it with the professor? You were sitting in the East Room listening to my speech, and you still managed to ask this question."

He glanced at George Christian before answering, and George immediately understood: such a tactless reporter shouldn't be allowed in next time.

"Obviously, this was my proposed plan. After the professor and I came up with the reusable rocket and multi-satellite launch technology, I've been thinking about how we can comprehensively enhance America's defense capabilities."

With this in mind, the Star Wars program was born!

(End of this chapter)