Foreign Relations of the United States, 1961–1963, Volumes VII, VIII, IX, Arms Control; National Security Policy; Foreign Economic Policy, Microfiche Supplement

143. Record of Action, 504th NSC Meeting, September 6¹

NSC Action 2456

September 6, 1962

Results of 1962 Nuclear Test Program to Date and Tests Proposed for Remainder of Program

a. Discussed a draft Department of Defense-Atomic Energy Commission letter, dated September 6, to the President advising him of the status of current preparations for continuing the high altitude tests in the Johnston Island area and requesting his approval for certain modifications and additions to the test program in Operation DOMINIC.

(Note: The Atomic Energy Commission and the Department of Defense subsequently revised the draft letter and formally submitted it to the President. The President approved the recommendations contained therein.)

b. Noted the President’s directive that the schedule proposed in the above-cited letter was subject to revision to accommodate the next MERCURY launching, and that he expected the Department of Defense, the Atomic Energy Commission and National Aeronautics and Space Administration to maintain constant coordination in this respect.

c. Noted the President’s directive that the usual “Notice to Mariners” closing the test area be issued through regular channels at the appropriate date. Noted also the President’s decision that any announcement or statement describing or explaining the continuation of the current test series would require White House approval prior to release.

1. Results of 1962 nuclear test program to date and tests proposed for remainder of program. Secret. 1 p. Department of State, S/S–NSC (Miscellaneous) Files: Lot 66 D 95, Records of Action by National Security Council.